PASSENGERS on four busy bus routes have been promised a more punctual service, after timetables were redesigned to avoid major ongoing roadworks.

In response to the news that the Moses Gate Bridge repair work will continue into the New Year, First Manchester is introducing a new timetable for its 8, 36, 37 and 501 services.

From November 12, some journeys on the 36 and 37 will be shortened to operate between Manchester and Walkden, whilst other journeys will continue to run the original route from Bolton to Manchester.

Services 8 and 501 will keep to their usual route, but will have extra time added to the schedule.

Carl Ogden, of First Manchester, said: “Since the repair work began on Moses Gate Bridge, customers boarding one of our services between Bolton and Salford have found that buses have been late or cancelled.

“But we are confident that the new timetables being implemented on November 12 will run to schedule, which will therefore assist customers with their journey planning.”

First Manchester will be holding two drop-in sessions about the changes on Thursday, from 9am to 2pm at The Angel Centre in Salford and 5pm to 7pm at The Bolton Hub.