Strategic Rail Update

October 29, 2026 Bee Network Committee (Committee) Approved View on council website

This summary is generated by AI from the council’s published record and supporting documents. Check the full council record and source link before relying on it.

Summary

The Bee Network Committee of Greater Manchester Combined Authority approved recommendations on 29/10/2026. The committee noted progress in integrating local rail services into the Bee Network, welcomed customer benefits being delivered, and supported continued joint working with government and rail industry partners. The committee also noted progress on national rail reform and supported engagement to secure a partnership with Great British Railways.

Full council record

Decision

  1. That the progress in integrating local rail services and stations into the Bee Network, including preparations for the first 14 stations to join in December 2026 and a further 15 stations from March 2027 be noted.
  2. That the customer benefits being delivered through Bee Network Rail Integration, including simpler fares, station improvements, better information, improved accessibility and the introduction of contactless rail travel be welcomed.
  3. That the work of the Greater Manchester Rail Board to translate the Greater Manchester Rail Vision to 2050 into a clearer, phased and evidence-led delivery plan be noted.
  4. That the continued joint working with Government and rail industry partners to improve current railway performance and develop a coherent, prioritised and deliverable programme of future rail investment be supported.
  5. That the progress of national rail reform and the Railways Bill be noted and the continued engagement with Government and the rail industry to secure a meaningful place-based partnership with Great British Railways be supported.
  6. That update on Northern Powerhouse Rail be noted, and that it be noted that a more detailed update including the review of options for an underground station at Manchester Piccadilly will be brought to a future Committee meeting.
  1. That a further report will be brought back to the Committee which will include detail on the delivery plan, Sunday services, the rationale for punctuality targets, station accessibility and bicycles on trains.

Supporting Documents

BNC 20261029 Strategic Rail Update.pdf

Details

OutcomeRecommendations Approved
Decision date29 Oct 2026