Powering the future of Manchester’s Bee Network buses through AI and data
TfGM is using CitySwift’s performance optimisation platform to transform the Bee Network with AI and data. TfGM aims to deliver a reliable, frequent, and efficient bus service, driven by data, improving passenger experience and service performance.
About this Project
Buses form the backbone of TfGM’s Bee Network, accounting for 75% of public transport trips and providing vital connections, especially for the 27% households without a car.
However, declining patronage and a fragmented system has led to the biggest bus reform in England in 40 years—bringing services under local control through franchising.
CitySwift’s performance optimisation platform supports TfGM by providing analytics, recommendations, and simulations to enhance reliability, efficiency, and collaboration with operators.
This data-driven approach ensures Manchester’s franchised network meets passenger needs, supporting the Greater Manchester Bus Strategy’s goal of increasing patronage by 30% by 2030, with CitySwift playing a key role.
Key Highlights
CitySwift provides TfGM and operators with accurate performance data, enabling seamless collaboration.
Its AI-powered platform models the impact of changes and offers evidence-based recommendations to enhance services.
By integrating ticket machine data, CitySwift delivers insights into passenger numbers, boarding patterns, and journey behaviors, ensuring fast access to high-quality data that reflects real on-the-road conditions.
By continuously monitoring and optimising the Bee Network, CitySwift supports a reliable, passenger-focused system, helping to improve service delivery, maximise efficiency, and drive the shift from car to bus—shaping the future of public transport in Manchester.
Facts & Figures
- The Bee Network hit 100 million passenger journeys in February 2025, with CitySwift’s platform monitoring and analysing service performance. This data-driven approach has led to key improvements, including:
- Prior to February 2025 six extra buses were added across the 52, 53 and 135 services.
- In February 2025 a further 10 buses were added across routes 17, 18, 181, 182 and 409.
- Timetable revisions for service 84, where buses were added in November 2024 to improve punctuality and reliability.
- CitySwift continues to support TfGM with data-driven solutions to optimise performance, ensuring Greater Manchester’s passengers receive a more reliable and efficient service.