GMPTE changes name to Transport for Greater Manchester

Transport for Greater Manchester logo

GMPTE has changed its name to Transport for Greater Manchester - and taken on new functions and responsibilities.

From today (Friday 1 April 2011), Transport for Greater Manchester will be the new name of the body responsible for local transport and travel matters.

A spokesperson Transport for Greater Manchester said: “Transport for Greater Manchester will be responsible for much more than just public transport.

“It will play a major role in analysing strategic highways and traffic issues, and advising the district authorities accordingly.

“Where appropriate, it will also work in partnership with them when it comes to delivery – for example, on agreeing, installing and maintaining traffic signals.”

It will continue to carry out the responsibilities of GMPTE, including: 

• paying for bus services which are not provided commercially by bus operators
• owning bus stations, shelters and stops in Greater Manchester and working to
• ensure all the information passengers see there is correct
• subsidising concessionary fares and free travel facilities on buses throughout the region, including paying to keep non-profitable services running where passengers need them most
• carrying out the policies of an elected authority to ensure that local rail services meet local travel needs
• owning Metrolink
• campaigning to promote public transport in Greater Manchester, to improve the environment and cut congestion 

To this will be added responsibility for: 

• managing the strategic highways network by co-ordinating maintenance,
• investment and roadworks
• managing traffic lights and signals
• road safety issues and initiatives which have a Greater Manchester relevance
• data collection
• strategic planning in relation to the major road network 

The spokesperson continued: “It is our job to promote the choices you have to make your journey, from public transport to walking to cycling. We will provide you with the information – and the facilities – you need so you can make the decisions that best suit you.

“We own Metrolink and are delivering a £1.4 billion expansion and improvement programme, providing new connections and new opportunities for Greater Manchester communities.

“By 2012 we will have connected people and businesses in Oldham and Rochdale to Metrolink, along an eastern route to Droylsden in Tameside, and around Chorlton in South Manchester. Metrolink will reach still further in future, into Oldham and Rochdale town centres, Ashton-under-Lyne, and Didsbury and stretching out past Wythenshawe to Manchester Airport, better connecting the communities along the way. Meanwhile, a second line across Manchester city centre will improve the capacity and resilience of the network.

“We pay for buses in areas where no commercial services are provided and help people such as the young and old travel at reduced fares. We also own Greater Manchester’s bus stations, shelters and stops.”

The spokesperson continued: “We are the voice of the passenger in securing rail services that match local travel needs.”