Sue Robb of 4Children talks to Julie Laughton and Alison Britton from the Department for Education about the role of childminders in delivering the 30 hours free entitlement.
Greater Manchester could become the first city-region in the UK to hold a public consultation on the introduction of a bus franchising scheme.
Bus franchising is currently in place in London and other major global cities, and means bus services – including routes, timetables, fares and standards – would be brought under local control.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will be asked at a meeting on 7 October to give the go ahead for a major public consultation into how the buses should be run in Greater Manchester, launching on Monday 14 October.
Transport for Greater Manchester has carried out an assessment of a proposed franchising scheme for Greater Manchester, comparing it with other realistic options, finding that the proposed franchising scheme would be the best way to meet Greater Manchester’s objectives and future vision for buses – which include a joined-up integrated bus and public transport network, simple fares and ticketing, an improved customer experience, and better value for money.
Sir Richard Leese, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport system, carrying people on 75 per cent of journeys across the city-region, taking people to work, the shops and the hospital and playing a crucial role in helping people go about their daily lives. But in Greater Manchester and other UK regions bus use is falling. We need a new model for running our buses to arrest this decline, so that the bus network can play the same key role it does in supporting other major global cities.
“The assessment recommends franchising as the best way to achieve Greater Manchester’s ‘vision for bus’, as part of a joined-up transport network that’s easy and enjoyable for customers to use and pay for, and value for public money. The franchising scheme has been developed alongside ongoing engagement with bus operators to consider any realistic partnership options. No partnership has been put forward that can offer the same long-term positive benefits for Greater Manchester and its public transport users, however further partnership proposals would, of course, be considered as part of a consultation process. A decision to proceed to a major public consultation would be another key step towards reforming how the buses are run.”
Sue Robb of 4Children talks to Julie Laughton and Alison Britton from the Department for Education about the role of childminders in delivering the 30 hours free entitlement.
Join the digital, data and technology community at DigiGov Expo – where public sector experts and innovators gain knowledge to transform government services.
The Workplace Event 2024
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting workplace cultures, and an increased focus on employee well-being, The Workplace Event (TWE) 2024 emerges as a beacon of insight, innovation, and inspiration. Taking place from April 30 - May 2 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, TWE brings together over 5,000 workplace and facilities management professionals.
Neat Bins, Part of Neat Seats Ltd is a company that specialises in cleaning all your wheeled bins
Let us show you the way…….
In the UK, asbestos remains a legacy issue in many public buildings, posing significant health and safety concerns. Craig Evans, chief operating officer of UKATA, presents a comprehensive guide on the removal, surveying, and consultation processes essential for asbestos management.
Scotland is a captivating destination that offers ideal settings for corporate meetings and events, incentive trips, and association conferences. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class facilities, Scotland has everything you need to ensure your event is memorable and successful.