Greater Manchester is bringing buses under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years. What does it mean for Andy Burnham? Jo Timan reports
When Sir Richard Leese ran the city, the Manchester council leader would regularly remind Andy Burnham why the role of mayor was created. "The whole reason you exist is to do buses," he would often tell Mr Burnham.
Buses in Wigan and Bolton, as well as some in Salford, Bury and Manchester, will be the first outside of the capital to come under public control in nearly 40 years. The move means local officials will set fares, routes and timetables – and contracted operators whose services are not up to scratch will be punished.
The alternative approach of 'enhanced partnerships' in which local leaders have an increased but limited influence over the bus network was discounted in 2021. But a series of legal challenges from bus operators soon followed. But what happens when this money runs out? Since last summer, the mayor has been asking the public to 'Get On Board' so fares can be kept low.
But Mr Burnham says the Clean Air Zone, which was paused in Greater Manchester after a huge public backlash last year, would not have been enough to sustain the Bee Network as it only penalised some polluting vehicles and charges would end once air quality improved. Other revenue-raising schemes could be considered as calls continue for mayors to be given more powers to collect and create local taxes, but for now, the mayor is focusing on the fare box and seeking government support.
After decades of deregulation and privatisation which were promised to make things better, the decline of local bus services has disproved the mantra that the market is the answer to everything, in his view. Taking back control of buses could be the first step towards a period of reversing the privatisation of other services - such as water, rail and energy - too.
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