Plan to shut bus depots announced

Bus service 184 pictured on Huddersfield Road in Diggle.

BUS OPERATIONS and drivers at two Greater Manchester depots could close and relocate elsewhere in the region, First Manchester has announced.

The bus company announced a proposal to relocate from its Bury and Tameside locations to depots in Queens Road, Oldham (Wallshaw Street) and Bolton (Weston Street).

First Manchester says the plan is part of a long-term strategy and follows a review of the depots and the network.

Currently, 320 employees work from the Bury depot and 92 employees work from Tameside.

Adrian Worsfold, director of operations at First Manchester, said: "Over the last two years we have been reviewing our depot network as part of a strategic review designed to make our business a more sustainable one and to help protect jobs.

"Our decision to relocate will not impact our customers ­- they should continue to expect high quality and reliable services.

"My colleagues in Bury and Tameside have done a terrific job and we will ensure that they are fully supported throughout the coming weeks.

"We have begun communicating with our colleagues and have shared our proposal with the trade unions to ensure their views are considered as part of this process.

"If the proposal goes ahead, we will of course be doing everything we can to assist those affected."

The First Manchester team will shortly start consultation with the trade union and a 45-day collective consultation process will then begin.

Mr Worsfold added: "Under the proposals, all 328 drivers roles at our Bury and Tameside depots will transfer. As we work through the consultation, it will become clear how many of our 84 non-driving employees will be at risk."

If the proposal proceeds, then the Bury and Tameside operations will be relocated by April, 2017.