BUS passengers have a last chance to give their opinions on the future of public transport.

There are only two days to respond to a landmark consultation which could result in Bolton’s buses being taken into public hands.

Currently the majority of services across Greater Manchester are run by individual companies which decide their own routes, frequencies, tickets and standards.

However, the region’s combined authority (GMCA) is looking into a system of bus franchising, meaning these companies would be dictated to by a local transport authority which would decide on routes, times and fares.

This plan has been put before the public and passengers have until midnight tomorrow (Wednesday) to have their say.

Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester Sir Richard Leese has called on anyone who has not taken part in the consultation to get involved.

“Buses are central to Greater Manchester’s transport system,” he said.

“However, currently Greater Manchester has very limited control of its bus network as the bus companies decide where the services go.

“But a change in the law means Greater Manchester can change the way we run our buses.

“The assessment, which has been independently audited, has found the best way to deliver our vision for buses is the proposed franchising scheme.”

The consultation has received more than 4,000 responses so far and these answers will lay the groundwork for any changes in the system.

Sir Richard added: “No decision has been made at this stage and we want to hear from as many people as possible, even if they are not regular bus users, so we get a wide spectrum of views.

“It’s encouraging that we have already heard from thousands of people, but I don’t want anyone to miss out on this once-in-a-generation chance to help shape our city-region’s future bus network.”

Following the public consultation, GMCA will publish a report giving its response. The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, will then decide whether or not to implement the proposed franchising scheme.

To complete the survey, visit: gmconsult.org or email gmbusconsultation@ipsos-mori.com.