Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM)

More than 5.6 million journeys are made across Greater Manchester’s transport network each day. TfGM helps make that travel as safe and simple as possible

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is a not-for-profit local Government body responsible for delivering Greater Manchester’s transport strategy and commitments set by the Greater Manchester Mayor and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).

TfGM coordinates transport networks across the region, decides where to invest transport funding, and owns and runs the Metrolink tram service.

It builds and manages bus stations and transport interchanges, provides travel planning and timetable information to passengers, and promotes walking and cycling as safe and healthy choices.

The Greater Manchester rail network is now used by around forty million passengers a year. This is an increase of thirty per cent over the past decade and TfGM has an influential voice in developing the best possible rail services in Greater Manchester.

TfGM works alongside industry partners helping to drive major improvements to the rail network by securing improvements to capacity, connectivity and reliability and are currently supporting Arriva Rail North (Northern) and TransPennine Express in delivering their franchise commitments.

These include new and longer trains, more travel options throughout the week, improved customer experience and integrated and smart ticketing.

TfGM also works closely with the Department for Transport and Network Rail to identify future improvements that align with Greater Manchester’s growth ambitions.

In partnership with Network Rail and train operators, TfGM is delivering improved customer information and detailed journey planning and supports a range of rail station improvements by securing more funding to complement work already planned.

Local knowledge enables TfGM to recommend which facilities and improvements will offer the greatest benefit for local passengers and which rail station development can spur local regeneration and economic growth.

This collaborative approach enables rail to be an integrated part of the transport network. TfGM is actively pursuing opportunities to use rail stations as more than boarding and alighting points, in the belief that stations have the potential to be important assets at the heart of local communities.

TfGM works closely with communities and industry to make rail stations attractive, safe, appealing and accessible for all.

Metrolink

TfGM owns Metrolink – the UK’s largest light rail network. There are seven lines and 93 stops in the Metrolink tram network and more on the way with the Second City Crossing through Manchester city centre and a planned extension to the Trafford Centre.

Long-term transport strategy

TfGM is developing the strategic Greater Manchester Rail Plan in collaboration with the Greater Manchester Mayor and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. The plan will outline the joint vision for the future of rail across the region, clearly setting out the policies and how the aspirations stated in the Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040 will be achieved. TfGM is a key partner in Rail North and Transport for the North.