Bee Network bus changes to improve services and night travel in Salford

Bus services in Salford are set for improvements as part of a major upgrade to the Bee Network across Greater Manchester.

A package of 36 service changes has been announced by Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, marking the most wide ranging update since bus franchising was completed in January last year.

In Salford, improvements will focus on better evening and weekend connections, particularly on the 95 service, supporting travel between Salford and Bury and linking communities in the south of the borough. A new night bus service will also operate between East Didsbury and MediaCity via Manchester city centre on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, extending late night travel options.

The changes are designed to improve access to jobs, education and leisure, while supporting the night time economy. Across Greater Manchester, the programme includes more frequent services, new routes and expanded night bus provision, with up to 740000 people expected to live within walking distance of improved routes.

Andy Burnham said, “These changes will benefit people right across Greater Manchester. They have come about as a direct result of your feedback and support for the Bee Network and have been made possible by the decision we took to bring our buses back under local control.

“By expanding Bee Network night buses to every borough, and providing more frequent services to key employment locations, we are creating more ways for people to access jobs and opportunities across the region.”

Alice Webb, chief executive of MediaCity and dock10, said the new links would improve access to jobs and activities in Salford. She said, “The Bee Network’s new improvements, including night services to MediaCity, make it easier than ever for businesses and talent across Greater Manchester to reach us.

“This new route is a practical step in strengthening the region’s economy, giving people a reliable and affordable means of transport to reach our growing number of nighttime activities. Reliable transport is vital for growth by driving footfall, investment and collaboration.”

The plans are subject to final costing and approval and are expected to be introduced during the 2026 to 2027 financial year.