The Bee Network is encouraging Manchester residents to walk and use public transport, reducing car journeys and promoting healthier travel habits.
In the past five years, more people in Greater Manchester are walking short distances. The number of people walking has risen from 52% to 57%. Meanwhile, car trips for short journeys have dropped from 41% to 36%.
More residents are choosing to walk or cycle for shorter trips. Greater Manchester aims to make 2025 a year where even more people leave their cars behind and use public transport.
Active travel, which includes walking, wheeling, and cycling, is key to the Bee Network. It connects people to bus stops, tram stops, and train stations.
In 2023, one-third of trips made by Greater Manchester residents were on foot, on wheels, or by bike. A survey in 2024 showed that half of the residents feel the transport network encourages walking or cycling, a big jump from 2023.
The rise in walking aligns with more people using public transport. Bus travel has increased by 5% since bus franchising began in 2023, and Bee Network trams saw record numbers last year.
Active Travel Commissioner Dame Sarah Storey stated that the Bee Network aims to help people use public transport, walk, or cycle more. The report shows positive trends, with more people choosing to walk for short trips.
Dame Sarah also noted that the report highlights areas needing improvement. The Bee Network Committee has approved recommendations for future work, focusing on better walking routes and links to public transport.
The goal is to create a safe, well-maintained public transport and active travel system. This will provide a cost-effective and convenient way for everyone to travel.
The Active Travel Annual Report outlines priorities to encourage more walking, wheeling, and cycling in daily life. To boost cycling, TfGM will collaborate with local authorities to develop a connected cycle route network.
