COUNCIL transport bosses have pledged talks with a bus operator amid concerns about a traffic ban which would affect Witch Way and Red Express services.

Diversions for the two routes, which run through Prestwich and Ramsbottom respectively, have already caused delays, says Transdev chief executive Alex Hornby.

But now a potential Manchester City Council traffic ban on Deansgate has caused further concerns and scupper their planned £3.5million new fleet of buses.

Cllr Angeliki Stogia, the city council's transport executive member, said: “Prior to temporary work being carried out on Deansgate, all bus operators were informed of our plans by Transport for Greater Manchester and at that stage, we received no indication that Transdev had concerns about the scheme or alternative bus routes identified.

"We are in contact with them and are keen to maintain a constructive dialogue to find solutions which work for all parties.

“Our ambition is to create more space for people, to enable them to safely return to the city.

"We are currently holding an open conversation – in which Transdev, all other bus operators and passengers are welcome to take part – about how this temporary arrangement works in practice, for everyone from commuters to residents to local businesses.”