The Department of Infrastructure (DFI) and Translink have once again been urged to permanently extend the late-night provision of its Metro and Glider bus services.
The additional services were designed to encourage more people to choose public transport in the lead-up to Christmas.
Representing an increase of more than 50% compared to the same period during Christmas 2022, CEO of Translink Chris Conway said “with sustainable funding” they hope to offer late-night services all year round.
“We will continue to work with all interested parties that value late-night public transport to secure the essential funding to create a better connected more sustainable city for everyone,” he said.
However, In August last year, councillors at City Hall spoke of their “disappointment” and “frustration” following a reply from the DFI that said there is no extra money to be found to spend on night public transport services for the city.
SDLP councillor Dónal Lyons expressed frustration that costs are still being cited for delaying the implementation of the service.
He told the Irish News: “When asked about these services, Translink and the Infrastructure Minister often cite costs, but that totally ignores the economic benefits such services would bring.
“This would solve a number of pressing issues, including providing people with more public transport options, helping to alleviate the congestion we have been seeing in recent months.
“We see every year at Christmas that these services are in huge demand and I believe that could be sustained year-round. The positives of introducing these services far outweigh any negatives and we would again urge Translink and the Minister to look at implementing them.”
Business leaders have also reiterated their calls for the service to be funded.
Martina Connolly CEO of Belfast One Bid told the Irish News it would provide “a vital lifeline” to our hospitality sector, which continues to face significant challenges.
“A dependable late-night transport network will not only improve safety and convenience for those enjoying our city’s vibrant nightlife but also help businesses thrive during evening hours,” she said.
“It is a crucial step toward making Belfast a more accessible, inclusive, and dynamic place for everyone. I strongly urge DFI and Translink to prioritise this initiative for the benefit of our businesses, workers, residents, and visitors.”
A DFI spokesperson said: “The Department is currently taking forward a significant amount of work to support economic growth in Belfast, including in respect of the nighttime economy.
“For instance, the Department is currently developing the Eastern Transport Plan 2035 (ETP), which will set the framework for making transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035 for five council areas including Belfast City Council. The ETP is a multi-modal transport plan that will aim to rebalance the transport network in favour of more sustainable modes.”
