Makerfield’s Transport Divide

In a by-election where transport is front and center, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s Bee Network bus initiative faces real-world scrutiny in Makerfield — a place where roads are fine, but buses feel slow and trains lag behind cars. Reporters found commutes to Manchester take twice as long by public transport, while locals say trains beat buses for short hops but can’t compete with driving’s convenience. Census data reveals nearly two-thirds commute by car — and only 4% by bus or rail — with many heading beyond Manchester to Bolton or Warrington. While some residents shrug and say “it’s alright,” especially given fuel costs, others still grumble about missed connections and outdated schedules. Amid the campaign, Burnham touts his transit legacy — but in Makerfield, the reality remains stubbornly car-dependent, even as rivals pitch their own transport visions. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9e04e156512ecd18