Yellow “Bee Network” buses are set to roll out from Bolton depots this weekend after a "mammoth operation" to prepare them.
This comes with the launch of a new system across Greater Manchester which aims to bring all forms of public transport together.
The services, run by Go North West, will begin on the morning of Sunday September 24, with more than 1,000 workers ready to run 320 buses across 50 lines around Bolton and Wigan.
Go North West managing director Nigel Featham said: “It’s all change for Manchester’s buses and we have a team of over 1,000 people ready to go this weekend.
“We’ve been working around the clock for months on a mammoth operation, every vehicle, every depot and every driver needs to be ready.
“We are determined to deliver world class public transport for a world class city.
“Go-Ahead is proud to be working with the Mayor and with Transport for Greater Manchester over this exciting changeover weekend.”
More than 1,000 workers employed at Go-Ahead’s Go North West operating company will include bus drivers, cleaners, and office staff.
The company says that mobilisation efforts have been under way for 10 months since the award of a contract to Go North West by TfGM.
Go North West is taking over two depots from outgoing operators and buses will be swapped out, with fully trained new drivers in place, overnight.
The Bee Network buses will replace Manchester’s six existing bus brands over the next 18 months, providing what Transport for Greater Manchester calls a joined-up network for passengers.
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This weekend is the first of three phases in which buses across Greater Manchester will go yellow, beginning with Bolton and Wigan.
Six liveries from the old bus companies, replaced by the Bee Network will eventually disappear.
Transport for Greater Manchester says that of the Bolton and Wigan fleet, 50 buses are zero-emission electric vehicles and all are fully accessible.
All the buses on the network will be equipped with passenger information screens and space for two wheelchairs, plus CCTV and two-way radios for security.
Fares will stay at £2 for an adult ticket, or £1 for a child.
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