Bus operator cuts service frequency

Bus service 184 pictured on Huddersfield Road in Diggle.

AN OLDHAM bus route will see peak times frequency reduced but be more reliable as part of First Manchester service changes across Greater Manchester.

As part of the service changes to be implemented on September 4, the Oldham 425 route will see a revised timetable at peak times with a slightly reduced frequency.

But there will be increased reliability for buses as they will operate in a clockwise direction at both ends of the 425 route rather than to the terminus and back.

The change to the route assist with punctuality as the bus will pick up customers heading into Oldham.

At Fitton Hill, buses will use Honeywell Lane, Keswick Avenue, Fir Tree Avenue and then onto Ashton Road.

At Holts, buses will run using Lees New Road, Wildmoor Avenue and Lees New Road.

The 163 from Manchester to Bury which runs through Middleton will benefit from three additional weekday peak time journeys to offer extra capacity.

First Manchester have also extended their range of products available on mobile ticketing.

The mTicket is easily available via the FirstBus App and means customers can simply add products as required and show their smart phone to the bus driver.

These will include the £9 group ticket for any five customers travelling together and corridor specific adult and child week tickets.

Dwayne Wells, commercial development manager, said: "We've listened to customers and introduced a range of new service connections and improved ticketing options to make travel with First Manchester simpler and smarter.

Reliability

"We're always looking for opportunities to improve the reliability of our services, such as the 425 which have a new route from September 4. Buses will run in a clockwise direction around Fitton Hill and Holts, rather than to and from a terminus point.

"This helps keep the bus moving, and our customers can board and alight the service at any stop around the loop.

"We've also changed the timetable to better reflect actual running times.

"Whilst there will be a few more minutes added between journeys at peak times, this should result in a more punctual service."

Further information is available at firstgroup.com/manchester.