New transport links from Littleborough, Milnrow and Middleton to local hospitals

New transport links from Littleborough, Milnrow and Middleton to local hospitals

Travelling to hospital appointments is about to become easier for residents in Littleborough, Milnrow and Middleton.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is launching two new transport services.

From Monday (30 January) Pennine Local Link service will offer convenient and affordable transport links to popular destinations, including Littleborough, Milnrow, Small Bridge and the Royal Oldham Hospital.

The flexible service will run Mondays to Fridays from 5am to 7pm. Passengers simply need to register once and can then book journeys online or by phone for up to one week before, with just an hour’s notice needed. Customers can get picked up or dropped off at home or anywhere in the service area.

A new 16 bus service, operated by Stott’s Tours, will also begin on the same date and run between Rochdale and North Manchester General Hospital via Middleton.

Councillor Mark Aldred, Vice Chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “The launch of these two new transport services emphasises our commitment to making travel easier, by providing accessible ways of making essential journeys.

“Local Link is an affordable, easy to use way to get around and I’m pleased to see it running in these new areas, offering sustainable transport links to local healthcare.

“As well as offering vital local transport links, people can use the service to connect with bus and Metrolink services, opening up even more travel opportunities.”

Councillor Richard Farnell, leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Many health services residents in Rochdale need to access are now based at North Manchester General and the Royal Oldham Hospitals, so it’s vital that they can get to these places quickly, easily and cheaply. Myself and my colleagues have been working with TFGM to get this new service launched and I’m delighted that it’s ready to hit the road.”

Councillor Phil Burke, who sits on the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “This is a great example of different organisations working together to benefit the public. I’m sure this vital new service will be very well used by our residents.”

Pennine Local Link will offer a range of affordable fares include concessions, singles and money saving return, four-day and weekly tickets. Customers can buy tickets from the driver or on their smartphones using the get me there app.

Journeys can be booked by phone or online, and several journeys can be booked in one phone call. Book by phone on 0161 200 6012 (open 7am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 8pm Saturday, Sunday and public holidays).

To find out more, register to use the Pennine Local Link or book a journey, visit www.tfgm.com/locallink