Bee Network Next Phase Ambassadors: Resource Hub

Last updated: Monday 5 October 2026

Thank you for supporting the Bee Network Next Phase Ambassador programme.

Buses and trams are already part of the Bee Network. Now it's time for rail. We are integrating local services to make train travel simpler, with better stations, clearer information, simpler fares and stronger links to bus, tram and walking, wheeling and cycling. The first train stations will come onboard from December 2026, with more following in 2027 and beyond.

Rail integration will make it easier for employers to recruit and retain staff by improving access to a wider workforce across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire and neighbouring travel-to-work areas.

As a Bee Network Next Phase Ambassador, we're grateful to you for sharing accurate information, explaining the benefits for businesses and employers, and encouraging constructive engagement through your own networks. This page brings together the latest messages, resources and guidance to support you.

Ambassadors are not expected to speak on behalf of TfGM or answer detailed technical questions. Instead, this page gives you the core information and approved materials to help you confidently champion the opportunity in your own words and signpost people to the right place for further detail.

Resources and downloads

TfGM’s ‘Say yellow to Bee Network Rail’ page contains the most up-to-date and accurate information on Rail Integration, and it’s recommended to point your networks towards this page. Your business cards and slide have a QR code linking people to here directly.

You can also see the stations joining the Bee Network, and when, here.

Assets and resources

Newsletter Copy

Bee Network Rail Integration coming soon

The Bee Network is making it easier than ever to get around Greater Manchester on public transport or by walking, wheeling and cycling.

Work continues in Greater Manchester to bring local rail services into the Bee Network, creating easier ways to pay, better connections and simpler journeys for Greater Manchester's residents, workers and businesses.

At a glance

December 2026: First 14 stations join the Bee Network, with contactless rail tap and go. You'll start to see changes to these and other stations across the city region.
March 2027: Contactless rail tap and go expands to 29 stations.
December 2027: More routes join and get tap and go, including Manchester Airport stopping services and Manchester to Cheadle Hulme and Middlewood (via Stockport).
End of 2028: Further routes join including lines serving Rochdale, Bolton, Wigan and Golborne.
2030: All 96 Greater Manchester stations planned to be part of the Bee Network.

As the Bee Network continues to expand, rail integration remains a key step in creating a simpler, more connected and more reliable transport network that supports Greater Manchester's economy and workforce.

Keep up to date with our Say Yellow to Bee Network Rail webpage.

Key messages

Rail integration has the potential to support businesses and employers by making journeys simpler, improving access to employment and training locations, and strengthening connections between town centres, employment sites and visitor destinations.

Access to a bigger talent pool
Better-integrated rail can make it easier for people to reach jobs across Greater Manchester and neighbouring travel-to-work areas. This can help employers recruit and retain staff by widening access to skills and labour markets.

Simpler journeys for employees, customers and visitors
A more joined-up Bee Network will make it easier to plan and make journeys across bus, tram and rail. Clearer information, simpler ticketing and better connections can reduce the complexity of travelling across Greater Manchester.

Improved reliability and productivity
Businesses consistently raise reliability as a key issue. More dependable public transport helps employees arrive on time, supports business travel and reduces disruption to meetings, shifts and customer appointments.

Stronger links between places
Rail integration can support better links between town centres, employment sites, visitor destinations, training locations and growth areas. This is important for inclusive growth, regeneration and access to opportunity.

Support for investment and long-term growth
A simpler, more connected transport network is part of the infrastructure Greater Manchester needs to support investment, growth and competitiveness. Rail integration helps demonstrate the city-region’s ability to deliver visible improvements and support long-term economic ambition.

Core messages for ambassadors

Bee Network Rail Integration is the next major phase of the Bee Network, bringing rail more closely together with bus and tram.
A more joined-up transport system will make journeys simpler and easier for employees, customers and visitors.
Better rail connectivity can help employers access a wider labour market and support recruitment, retention and productivity.
Rail is central to Greater Manchester’s long-term growth, regeneration and international competitiveness.