Blog

Our blog offers commentary, analysis and insights on the latest urban transport debates from our team of experts, as well as our Director’s regular column for Passenger Transport magazine.

Image by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street / Flickr

Network North – Unpicking the Prime Minister’s new plan for transport

Network North commits to many things including boosting Combined Authority transport settlements. However, for our member regions, the silver-lining of increased devolved budgets is tempered by a cloud that hangs over investment in nationally important infrastructure – the lack of long-term thinking and certainty. 
Vernon Everitt

The Bee Network’s buzz in Westminster

Buses are at the heart of Greater Manchester’s Bee Network. The recent City Regions Transport APPG heard from Vernon Everitt on the scale of ambition, the challenges faced throughout the region’s journey to franchising and the expected benefits from this major change.
Bee Network branded buses in Greater Manchester

Updating bus laws - a smoother ride to improving services

If you find yourself waiting for a bus at Bolton Interchange this Sunday, perhaps the first thing you’ll notice when one arrives is the colour: yellow. You might also clock that your bus is quiet, as it’s electric and zero emission. And you probably won’t fail to spot the bee logos - representing the worker bee, the symbol of Greater Manchester.

Megaphone

Words matter when we debate transport

"In the run up to the next general election, I ask politicians to think carefully about what they say and have a proper debate", writes Jason Prince, in his first column for Passenger Transport magazine.
Pickpocket

When in Rome... be vigilant on public transport

I had been to Rome 30 years ago and heard tales of pick pockets and thieves, but never had anything happen directly to me or my close companions. How did we fall for it now, asks Saila Acton, following a recent trip to Italy.
Child on beach with rainbow

Come rain or shine – Car-free adventures this summer

Summer 2023 has – so far – been a bit of a wash out. But that doesn’t mean it has to stop you from getting out. And what better way to do so than by leaving the car keys at home and hopping on a bus, bike, train or tram, or just on foot to explore some of what the UK has to offer, writes James Kershaw.