Bolton transport interchange now serving customers

The bus station at Moor Lane closed its doors last night and the new facility is now welcoming customers to help transport them around the region.

The first bus, the 36 to Manchester via Little Hulton and Walkden, pulled out shortly after 6am today and the first passenger was Leila Ibrahim.

The long-awaited interchange is the largest of its kind in Greater Manchester and is now completed after years of building work.

The £48million hub boasts better customer information, enhanced waiting and ticketing facilities, a branch of Greggs, a newsagents, a cash machine and free Wi-Fi.

It has large screens displaying passenger information near the entrance and in the main concourse area, as well as smaller screens at each of the 23 bus stands.

It also has a cycle hub offering free storage for 48 bikes.

The new skylink bridge connects it to Bolton railway station meaning that commuters can easily access links between the town's bus and rail services.

Metroshuttle, a free bus serving Crompton Place shopping centre, Market Place shopping centre and Topp Way car park, will also operate out of Bolton Interchange.

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Paul Overend, duty manager - bus station operations, said: “We’ve been working towards this day for some time - it’s been a great team effort and I’m really pleased that the first day of operation has gone well.

“Bus services have been running smoothly and passengers we’ve spoken to appreciate the modern, light and spacious facilities. One infrequent bus traveller has even said that the interchange feels so safe and appealing that they’d consider selling their car to use buses every day.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming more passengers tomorrow for what will no doubt be a very busy Monday, with many commuters returning to work after the summer holidays.”

The interchange has been funded by the Greater Manchester Transport Fund and supports wider regeneration plans in the area.