The Transport Select Committee has held an oral evidence session with Tim Bowles, Mayor of the West of England; Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester; and Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool, to discuss the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on local transport. 

Local MP Robert Largan asked Andy Burnham a series of questions regarding connectivity between the High Peak and Greater Manchester.

Robert urged the Mayor to look at how public transport timetables could be changed in the future to help night-time economy businesses such as pubs, restaurants and theatres, which have all been badly hit by the global pandemic. At present, services from Manchester back to the High Peak do not run late enough into the evening, which negatively impacts both the High Peak and Greater Manchester.

The MP also highlighted the lack of a direct bus route from Glossop to Tameside Hospital.

The High Peak MP asked Andy Burnham to work more closely with Derbyshire County Council, especially with regard to cycle lanes, to make it easier for people to cycle safely between the Peak District and Greater Manchester. In response, Andy Burnham confirmed that there are plans to create high quality cycle routes from Manchester to Sheffield, including the High Peak and committed to working with the High Peak MP and the local Council.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“While we have no say in the election of the Mayor, the decisions taken by Andy Burnham have a significant impact on many High Peak residents.

“I questioned the Mayor on a whole range of topics, focusing on the need to improve transport links between Greater Manchester and the High Peak. I’m really pleased that the Mayor has agreed to work with me. By working together, I know we can emerge from this crisis with stronger local services for the High Peak.”