TfGM have confirmed that fares on Manchester Metrolink will remain frozen in 2025 – for a fifth consecutive year. This news comes alongside a host of other fare announcements across the Bee Network as they seek to make public transport as affordable as possible.
As well as Metrolink fares remaining as they are, the following changes will be introduced for public transport users:
- Single bus fares will remain at £2 and not increase to the new national fare of £3
- Bee Bus Annual Ticket will be introduced which will give savings of up to £240 per annum
- 7 day and 28 day bus tickets will be reduced in price. Unlimited travel on Bee Network bus services will be £20 for 7-days (instead of £21) and £80 for 28-days (down from £85.40) for adults with child versions available for half the price.
- New hopper fare allowing passengers to swap services within an hour for the same price as a single ticket
- Extension of free travel for young people. This will allow care leavers to enjoy free travel on buses and half price off peak travel on Metrolink between the ages of 18 and 25 (up from 21). Currently due to be introduced in April 2025 this is subject to funding.
The new fares will be introduced from 5th January 2025.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “When most bills are going up, it feels good to be bringing the cost of travel down, supporting our residents and making it easier to access education, jobs and the support they need to get on in life.
“Getting around by public transport has, in the past, been costly. All eyes are on Greater Manchester as we show how keeping costs down and getting more people on board can deliver massive benefits to both our communities and our economy. It’s a model that London has reaped the rewards from for decades.
“We are now seeing the benefits of a joined-up public transport system, controlled by local leaders, come to fruition. Whether more frequent and reliable buses, or new ways to pay for cheaper tickets, our plan for the Bee Network is really coming together.
“The recent funding from government was a vote of confidence in the journey we’re on, and there’s more to come with the launch of tap in tap out across bus and tram in the spring and then bringing rail into the Bee Network.”