TRANSPORT bosses are a step closer to having new powers to tackle anti-social behaviour on buses and trams.

The Government has agreed, subject to parliamentary approval, to extend powers that would allow TfGM to apply to the courts for civil injunctions against those involved in nuisance and anti-social behaviour on public transport.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “Anti-social behaviour is a blight on our communities and the transport networks that serve them.

“We’ve seen a steady increase in the numbers of incidents reported in recent years and I am not prepared to sit back and allow free rein to the small minority of people who think it acceptable to intimidate, threaten or abuse transport workers and commuters.

“That is why I asked the Home Secretary to grant TfGM the power to issue civil injunctions and help them battle the eroding effect that ASB can have on a person’s decision whether or not to use public transport.”