TRANSPORT chiefs are planning a bright Christmas for bus passengers.

Improved bus services are being lined up for the Christmas and New Year period.

Discussions are currently underway with service operators regarding levels of services over the festive season.

Provision on some days, particularly Boxing Day, may depend on retail activities during the day.

Chairman of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority's Policy Committee, Councillor Stan Skinkis, said:

"Last year we managed to secure the highest service levels for many years. We are hopeful we will be able to offer similar levels again this year. We are currently talking to the town centre managers to try and establish retail opening hours for the Christmas and New Year period as these will obviously have a major bearing on the services required."

A progress report will be made to the Authority's Transport Network Committee on October 2.

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