Manchester (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Mayor Andy Burnham expressed that Greater Manchester is proving the case for transformation when it comes to public transport.
Bus orders for a fresh fleet developed to reach more rural communities have assisted create jobs across Greater Manchester. Hundreds of new buses are being produced at locations across the UK following the city region’s determination to regain control of its public transport services.
The Bee Network commissioned Rochdale bus firm Mellor to produce 28 buses that will operate in the south of Greater Manchester when buses come back under local authority from 5 January. Transport for Greater Manchester expressed the orders have supported the creation of 15 new apprentice roles.
How does the bee network enhance local job creation?
The apprentices receive on-the-job training, performing alongside a highly trained workforce who often act as mentors, along with a college day release programme. Their 18-month agenda, designed in cooperation with Hopwood Hall College for the Woodall Nicholson Apprenticeship scheme, will lead to a qualification for vehicle converter.
Mayor Andy Burnham stated: “Greater Manchester is proving the case for change when it comes to public transport. I was particularly pleased to meet the young apprentices with bright futures ahead of them and who are benefitting thanks to the Bee Network. We want to encourage even more young people into the industry.”
Twenty-one of the 28 buses are presently in service and the remaining seven will work early next year. The new fleet is benefiting smaller local estates and communities, with the compact buses specifically developed for narrower roads in more rural and outlying areas.