Driving Inclusion – How Greater Manchester’s Bus Network is Leading the Way in Accessible Transport

As part of the move, walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure is being reviewed and upgraded to ensure accessibility for all, many of the coaches themselves will be refurbished to include additional wheelchair seating and accessible signage. The Network will also have its own dedicated accessibility champion, advocating for the needs of disabled people in future plans. Furthermore, real time audio-visual announcements are expected to be added across many of the buses for travelers with visual and hearing disabilities, with additional improvement to be made across the network’s rail services and cycling routes.

Although Direct Access has not been directly involved in the refurbishment of the Bee Network, TfGM’s subsequent decision to improve services for commuters after consultations with various disability organisations and charities, reflecting our own collaborations with providers such as Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, and TransPennine. Like TfGM, each of these partners have demonstrated commitment to delivering a more accessible and inclusive transportation service, embedding inclusive, equitable, and sustainable elements that benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities. 

One example of an accessibility-focused refurbishment which went on to benefit people of all backgrounds was the installation of the first Calm Corner ( or Quiet Space) at Crewe Station. The first of its kind on the UK rail network, this key feature, which has been implemented in other places throughout the UK and beyond, was originally conceived when Direct Access’ consulted with station owners Avanti West Coast on a series of station action audits. This innovation, while radically new at the time, became quickly adopted by competitors, as it not only provided a quiet space for individuals who may have needed a break from sensory stimulation, but also a refuge for non-disabled passengers to destress.

Providing public transport which is inclusive to people with disabilities overall offers multiple benefits, to passengers, providers, and society as a whole including; 

1. 1. Increased Mobility and Independence

   • Provision of greater independence and freedom to move around without relying on others, making it easier for them to attend work, social events, appointments, or simply enjoy the city.
   • Accessible features like low-floor buses, elevators, ramps, and audio/visual announcements ensure that people with mobility, sensory, and cognitive impairments can use public transport with greater ease.

   2. Enhanced Social Inclusion

   • Reduction of social isolation by enabling people with disabilities or elderly passengers to participate fully in community activities, engage in the workforce, and access leisure opportunities.
   • Fostering of a more inclusive society where people of all abilities can interact, work, and socialise without barriers.

   3. Improved Safety and Comfort

   • Accessible vehicles, stations, and stops designed with safer, more comfortable features such as better lighting, clearer signage, and wider aisles, benefiting all passengers, including those without disabilities.
   • Features like audio announcements, visual displays, and tactile maps ensure that passengers with visual or hearing impairments can navigate safely.

   4. Economic Benefits

   • Opens up job opportunities for people with disabilities, helping them access a broader range of employment options.
   • Businesses and local economies benefit from a larger customer base as more people are able to travel independently, including tourists, workers, and customers with diverse needs.
   • Reduction of costs related to social services and healthcare by improving overall well-being and reducing reliance on specialised transport services.

   5. Environmental Benefits

• Encourages more people to use buses, trains, and trams, leading to fewer cars on the road, reduced traffic congestion, and lower carbon emissions.
• Amplifies environmental protective measures as more people opt for public transport due to convenience and overall accessibility.