New 24-hour Bee Network bus service planned for Sale Thursdays-Saturdays
People in Sale could soon benefit from a new overnight Bee Network bus service, as Trafford prepares for a series of public transport improvements aimed at making it easier to get around for work, nights out and everyday journeys.
Under the plans, the 263 route will connect Altrincham, Sale and Stretford with Manchester city centre around the clock on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays later this year. The 263 already serves Sale and the new night-time provision is set to be one of the most noticeable changes locally, giving people a later link home from the city and supporting Trafford’s evening and night-time economy.
The 263 is also due to see wider improvements to frequency and performance at other times, which will be welcome news for regular passengers travelling between Sale and Manchester during the day.
The changes form part of a wider package of 36 service improvements announced by Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, described as the biggest and most wide-ranging upgrade to the Bee Network since bus franchising was completed in January 2025. Subject to final costing and approval, the interventions are planned to be introduced during the 2026/27 financial year.
Trafford will also see more regular buses on the 255 between Partington and Manchester city centre, with services increasing from every 30 minutes to every 20 minutes. Meanwhile, the 132 will get later journeys and extra capacity to support staff travelling to and from the Trafford Centre.
Councillor Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said the improvements would make “a big difference to a lot of people”, whether they are travelling to work or college, visiting loved ones, attending appointments or heading out for leisure. That feels especially relevant for Sale, where the 263 is a key route to both Manchester and neighbouring Trafford towns without relying on a car.
The announcement also confirms fares remain capped across Greater Manchester, with the £2 single and £5 day ticket staying in place for the rest of 2026. Free travel through Our Pass remains available for 16 to 18-year-olds, while people aged 18 to 21 can continue to access half-price bus travel.
