UK transport infrastructure projects see major developments in Manchester and Bradford

Significant transport infrastructure upgrades are underway across Greater Manchester and Bradford. In Greater Manchester, the Bee Network has reached a milestone of 500 electric buses, up from just 35 three years ago. This expansion, supported by Wrightbus, aims for a fully electric fleet by 2030, which is projected to reduce annual CO2 emissions by 76,000 tonnes.

Rail improvements in Manchester have also reached key stages. A £90 million investment has brought three major projects into service, including two new railway turnback lines at Oldfield Road and Brewery Junction to reduce congestion at Manchester Victoria, and a new third platform at Salford Crescent. Additionally, the Manchester Metrolink is undergoing a 4-kilometer track renewal project between Trafford Bar and Deansgate-Castlefield to improve service reliability.

In Bradford, the government has confirmed the construction of a new station at Bradford Interchange, expected to open in the early 2030s. Part of the Northern Powerhouse Rail initiative, the project aims to improve connections to Leeds, Manchester, and York. The development is expected to unlock up to £1 billion in economic benefits and support the regeneration of the Southern Gateway area, potentially providing 5,000 new homes and 23,000 jobs.