Greater Manchester to Get London-Style Contactless Ticketing

From March 2025, Greater Manchester is hopping on board with the future by bringing in contactless ticketing for buses and trams, just like in London.

Transport for Greater Manchester

Contactless on public transport? Isn’t that already a thing?

Yes, sort of. But this time, it’s Manchester going all in. You’ll soon be able to tap and ride, with no more fumbling around for change or paper tickets. Plus, there's more than just the convenience of contactless – they’re launching an annual Bee Network bus pass for £800. Not keen on paying it all at once? No problem. You’ll be able to spread the cost thanks to a partnership with credit unions.

But what does that mean for me?

It means you could save about £5 a week on public transport. Think of it as a little gift to your wallet. You’ll even be able to start applying to credit unions for this from 5th December, so come January, you’ll be all set with the new payment system.

Why is Andy Burnham so keen on this?

Good question! Mayor Burnham’s big on growth – and we’re not just talking about trees here. He’s said that without a proper transport system, the region can’t thrive. If people can’t get to work, school, or appointments easily, that’s a roadblock to success (pun intended).

“The cost of transport shouldn’t be the reason that someone can’t go somewhere, to work or a doctor’s appointment."

Credit unions though? Is that really the best option?

According to Burnham, working with credit unions makes things safer and simpler for residents. They’ll help you spread the cost of the annual pass, so you don’t have to shell out £800 in one go. It’s about making public transport more accessible – not just physically, but financially too.

“There are real benefits for everyone potentially here and we are delighted to have struck this innovative partnership with credit unions.

“This is a much safer route for people to access immediate finance for things they might need. We’re pulling you right to the heart of what we’re trying to do with the Bee Network – but it could go further.”

Burnham added.

Sounds good, but what’s the big picture here?

It’s all part of Manchester’s grand transport revamp. They want more people back on buses and trams, and who can blame them? Better services mean happier passengers, and happier passengers mean a thriving, connected region. That’s the goal, anyway.

And what do the credit unions think?

Sheenagh Young, CEO of South Manchester Credit Union, said the partnership will save residents hundreds of pounds each year and encourage more people to opt for annual passes.

She added:

“We’re really excited to be part of the transport agenda, we think it’s a really strong partnership.

“This scheme is an innovative collaboration allowing access to these loans that will help people to save £240/250 a year, we want to get pounds back into people’s pockets and that supports the local economy.”

So, what’s next?

The Bee Network is buzzing along, with bus franchising set to wrap up by January. So, come March, you’ll be tapping your way around town like a seasoned Londoner – but with a Mancunian twist.