Northern Ireland

Translink claims extra 400,000 passengers in last two months despite traffic problems

Translink says recent investments such as increased services to Dublin are encouraging more people to use public transport

Train passengers arrive and depart from Grand Central Station in Belfast. PICTURE: MAL MCCANN
Train passengers arrive and depart from Grand Central Station in Belfast. PICTURE: MAL MCCANN

TRANSLINK has said that an extra 400,000 passenger journeys have been made in the last two months compared to the same time last year.

Despite being among those facing frequent criticism over traffic delays in Belfast, the growth was put down to the opening of the new Belfast Grand Central Station, enhanced bus frequency and a new rail timetable, including the new hourly Enterprise service to Dublin.

Overall, this is estimated as a 10% increase on bus and rail as well as a 30% increase on cross border Enterprise journeys.



Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said: “As we have witnessed recently, a modal shift to public transport is vital for the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of our region.

“Passengers are clearly voting with their feet, demonstrating that sustainable investment in public transport services and infrastructure has benefits across the whole country.”

As well as the new bus and rail hub, he pointed to increased frequency on many Goldliner routes to and from Belfast, as well as high frequency park and ride services.

Translink CEO Chris Conway as the Belfast Grand Central Station has opens  to the public.
PICTURE: MAL MCCANN
Translink CEO Chris Conway as the Belfast Grand Central Station has opens to the public. PICTURE: MAL MCCANN