High Peak is on the Move: Better Transport, Fairer Fares

For the first time in more than 30 years, rail fares are not going up next year – and for families in High Peak, that really matters. After years of eye-watering increases, this freeze means people can finally breathe a little easier. A Glossop–Manchester season ticket will now be £88 cheaper than expected. That’s money staying in people’s pockets at a time when every pound counts. And it didn’t happen by accident – it’s a deliberate decision by Keir Starmer and his Government to ease pressure on working people and start turning the page on the cost-of-living crisis.

Making life more affordable and helping the pound in your pocket go further is our top priority. And tackling the cost of the daily commute is central to that mission.

For young people in High Peak, we’re already making a real difference. Working with East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward, I’ve secured free bus travel for 16 to 18 year olds attending colleges in Greater Manchester. This has supported more than 70,000 journeys and is saving families hundreds of pounds a year. At a time when budgets are tight, that support is genuinely life changing.

We’re also making it easier for people to save money on rail fares. Pay As You Go is expanding to 50 more stations this December, giving passengers clearer and more transparent pricing. And the new Greater Manchester extension zones – covering Glossop, Hadfield and Dinting – will introduce just two ticket types on the day, half-price single tickets, and average fares falling by 5.6 per cent. That means more than half of all journeys will now cost less.

Next April, when Claire Ward gains new powers over transport across our region, she’ll be shaping a 15-year plan for buses, roads and local connections. This is High Peak’s moment to be heard. I want every resident, business and community group to take part in her consultation before 8 February 2026 so we can make the strongest possible case for investment.

Follow this link to have your day: https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/EMCCA-individual

From speaking to residents at surgeries, coffee mornings and supermarket stalls, I know improving the 61 bus service – especially evenings and weekends between Glossop and Buxton – would make a real difference. I’m also campaigning to bring Buxton into the Greater Manchester ticketing area, cutting costs for regular travellers and giving local people access to simpler, cheaper fares. These are key priorities for our area, but I want to hear yours.

Many residents have also contacted me about the ongoing bypass works on Mottram Moor (A57). I know the congestion is incredibly frustrating, which is why I’m working with National Highways to secure clearer, earlier information about planned works.

Your voice matters, and I want to ensure it is heard at every level of government. Please do reach out to me at [email protected] with your thoughts.

With your input, we can make sure High Peak stays on the right track.