Digital transport portal for Greater Manchester businesses

Businesses in Greater Manchester now have access to a ‘one stop shop’ for information on public transport and active travel thanks to a digital portal. 

The online interactive site is part of a push for companies in the area to encourage workers and customers alike to utilise the public transport and active travel, meaning activities such as walking and cycling, options available to them in the region. 

Vernon Everitt, Greater Manchester’s Transport Commissioner, said: ‘Encouraging affordable sustainable travel for employees, customers and visitors will provide the platform to boost productivity and improve people’s health and wellbeing across the region. 

‘It also makes a huge contribution towards protecting the environment and helping to meet Greater Manchester’s carbon reduction targets. To support this, there will be a step change in how TfGM engages with businesses, including the new business portal providing information and advice on getting the best value for money tickets and sustainable transport choices.’ 

Alongside an overview of the overall scheme, the portal features digital noticeboards on four key areas: The business commuting toolkit, rethinking the commute, supporting active travel for employees, and fares and ticket options. 

The portal is part of Transport for Greater Manchester’s push of the new ‘Bee Network’ which looks to create a ‘joined-up London-style transport system’ by linking the regions various transport options. 

Buses will be integrated from this year, trams from 2024 and commuter trains will be integrated into the network by 2030. Over 1,800 miles of active travel routes and 2,400 new crossings will also be created as part of the network. 

Multiple gold medalist Paralympian and the Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester Sarah Storey said: ‘We are working to build a network and places that not only help staff to get to and from work but enhance the opportunities for meetings to be held outside, and for staff to move during their breaks. 

‘The active travel links of the Bee Network are being created to provide greater flexibility for people’s journeys around the city region and the TfGM business portal will make journey planning even easier for employers and workers.’ 

A live chat support service is also signposted through the portal, allowing users to speak to the TfGM contact centre Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. 

Local government organisation have been increasingly using online databases and portal to signpost residents and businesses to important information, as shown by the recently launched Scarborough warm spaces database.

Photo by Thomas Foster