JAM-beating buses are an important part of future public transport plans.

Leigh MP Lawrence Cunliffe said new government guidelines would reduce delays and improve bus service reliability by giving them priority on urban roads.

The Keep Buses Moving strategy includes advice for local authorities on traffic management measures such as "withflow" and "contraflow" lanes, bus-only streets, junction priority and spy cameras to keep bus lanes clear.

Mr Cunliffe said: "Buses are a lifeline for many and we need to work towards getting them to run on time. I want people to use the bus more and cars less to reduce jams.

"The only way to do this is to improve the service so people want to use it."

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