Transport Accessibility: Bolton West

Opened the debate

Chris Green highlighted the importance of public transport for his constituents, emphasising improvements made through electrification projects and investment in infrastructure. He discussed challenges such as car parking issues caused by commuters from outside Greater Manchester using local stations due to lower fares within the area, suggesting that resolving these would benefit both residents and environmental goals. He also addressed concerns over bus services, particularly under the Mayor of Greater Manchester's devolution strategy, advocating for comprehensive coverage and radial connectivity rather than solely focusing on central destinations. Green called for a better public transport choice rather than coercion through measures like clean air zones or workplace parking levies, emphasising the need to support local manufacturers like Severfield in Lostock. He concluded by welcoming further improvements such as the Daisy Hill accessibility project.

Government Response

Minister Richard Holden congratulated Chris Green on raising the debate, emphasising the government's commitment to improving transport infrastructure in Greater Manchester. He highlighted significant investments including over £1 billion for sustainable transport settlement and £94.8 million for bus service improvement plans. The minister detailed specific electrification projects like the Wigan to Bolton route with a focus on capacity improvements at stations such as Westhoughton, Hindley, and Ince. He also discussed support for buses, including fare caps and extensions, and mentioned efforts towards accessibility improvements through initiatives like the Daisy Hill lift project. Holden acknowledged concerns about clean air zones and workplace parking levies, stressing the government’s focus on providing positive public transport choices rather than coercion.