First Bus sale a chance to create a First-Class Bus Service, says Oldham Liberal Democrat Leader
The Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, has responded to recent reports in the national and transport press that First Bus Group has put its Manchester operation up for sale. Councillor Sykes also represents Oldham Council on the Transport for Greater Manchester committee. According to Passenger Transport, in 2012/13 the division had a £101 million turnover and made £3.5 million profit. However, by 2017/18 revenues had fallen to £86m, and the Manchester operation made a loss of £5.8m. National media reports suggest the business could be sold for as little as £20 million with vehicles sold to one or more competing operators, along with depots at Bolton, Bury and Oldham. Commenting, Councillor Sykes said: “The consistent feedback received from my constituents, who are…