I WOULD like to respond to the points raised by Graham Bridge in relation to the plans for a new bus and rail interchange for Bolton (Letters, February 14).

The interchange, on land bounded by Newport Street and Great Moor Street, has been developed by both Transport for Greater Manchester and Bolton Council and consideration has been given to the way the development fits into the wider town centre strategy.

Far from being an unpopular scheme, as Mr Bridge suggests, a public consultation in 2010 found support for the proposals was significantly higher than any negative feedback.

I can also reassure Mr Bridge that, regardless of the layout of a bus station or the type of stand arrangement adopted, there will always be a number of available “layover” bays — nine are proposed at Bolton Interchange — which provide the necessary flexibility to manage services. In terms of late-running services (Mr Bridge’s central point), we have worked closely with operators to drive up the punctuality and reliability of bus services across Greater Manchester, and this is achieving real improvements.

If there are circumstances which result in the late running of some services then our staff will ensure the interchange operates in a safe manner.

This is the way all bus stations in Greater Manchester — built and managed by us — operate on a daily basis and Bolton Interchange will be no different.

In terms of wider traffic, the interchange forms a key part of the wider Bolton Town Centre Transport Strategy, which is being led by Bolton Council and aims to reduce traffic flows on the inner ring road in general.

You read more about it online at bolton.gov.uk/tcts This will make traffic flows lower than experienced in Great Moor Street by the time the interchange comes into operation and the detailed transport modelling carried out shows that all these elements will work together well.

I can confirm that, at the same time, the bus stops in Great Moor Street will be removed and a controlled pedestrian crossing facility is being developed for the Great Moor Street/Newport Street junction, which should address Mr Bridge’s other comments. Lastly, I’d like to reassure readers that the interchange will offer improved links between rail and bus services, improved waiting areas, passenger facilities, accessibility, information and safety and security.

Michael Renshaw Bus & Rail Director, TfGM