The emerging town getting a "raw deal" and calling for a new express bus service to Manchester Airport

Councillors in Stockport have supported calls for a new express bus service to Manchester Airport. They voted in favour of the motion at a meeting at the town hall on Wednesday night.

The idea was put forward by Coun Matt Wynne, leader of the Edgeley Community Association (ECA), who said Stockport needs a “21st century bus service” for airport staff and people going on holiday. He said the existing 199 route from Buxton – which stops in Stockport on the way to the airport – is facing issues with delays.

Mr Wynne said: “If people use the bus [199] once and it doesn’t turn up they’re not going to use it again, people won’t run that risk when they’ve got to get to the airport. This is about workers and coverage for the borough. We need to look at the deal we have for an airport express, not just for the centre of Stockport but for the wider borough as well.”

Coun Asa Caton, also of the ECA, added: “It’s not just about improving a route, it’s about opening doors to economic growth, tourism, and facilitating commutes for a workforce based in Stockport. Strengthening bus links also encourages sustainable travel choices, reducing individual carbon footprints and easing traffic congestion. It’s a great step towards a greener cleaner future.”

Lib Dem and Labour councillors spoke in favour of the plan. Coun Grace Baynham said Stockport has had a “raw deal” with buses over the last few years, having services cut without being reinstated. Coun David Meller, leader of Stockport Labour Group, said it’s in “everyone’s interest” to make sure there’s a decent bus service to the airport.

The motion called on the council to write to Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham about the proposed service, and bring the matter to the Stockport Bee Network Committee once it is set up. Stockport recently opened its new £140 million transport interchange, a move seen as a key moment in the regeneration of the town centre. Buses in Stockport are set to join Transport for Greater Manchester’s Bee Network from January 2025.