Downpatrick Bus Station Is Up and Running
20 June 2005
Public transport users in the Down region will benefit from a significantly improved service, thanks to the opening of a new bus station in Downpatrick today (20 June 2005).
Officially opened by the Chairman of Down District Council, Carmel O’Boyle and Dr Joan Smyth CBE, Chairman of Translink, the new bus centre is a modern passenger facility, purpose built to the highest specification within an 11-month timeframe. The project also includes the upgrade and refurbishment of the neighbouring engineering facilities.
Funded by the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE II), the project brings Downpatrick into line with other world-class developments being rolled out across Translink’s bus and rail network and will help to deliver a transport system fit to meet the needs and demands of consumers in the 21st century.
Speaking at the opening ceremony Translink Chairman, Dr Joan Smyth CBE said, “We believe that the opening of this new bus centre reflects our continued commitment to developing first class transport facilities for the travelling public and indeed for visitors to this area.”
She added, “Convenience, comfort and accessibility are the hallmarks of this new station and these standards are to the benefit of customers and staff alike. Key qualities such as punctuality, safety, reliability and value form the backbone of an effective and efficient transport system. However such standards can only be achieved through on-going investment and we are very thankful for the EU funding made available to complete this project.”
Keith Moffatt, Chief Executive explained, “The completion of this centre marks another milestone in a programme of station refurbishments and improvement.”
He added,
“Fully accessible and compliant with the latest regulations on disability access, Downpatrick’s new bus centre offers covered departure stands, comfortable passenger waiting/refreshment areas, cycle racks, public toilets and a parent-and-baby room. Low level ticket desks and an induction loop for the hard of hearing are integral to the station and CCTV helps reinforce the safety message and increase passenger confidence. We have also introduced a clean air policy with the entire facility a no-smoking (and alcohol-free) zone.”
Translink’s 55-strong team of staff who are based at Downpatrick will also benefit from the new canteen, shower area and recreation room.
The completion of the project marks the latest milestone in Tranlink’s sustained programme of development across Northern Ireland and follows on from the delivery and commissioning of 23 new trains and the introduction of the Metro bus network throughout the Greater Belfast area. It also includes a major revision of the Goldline inter-urban express service, which saw the introduction of 50 new coaches and increased service frequency. A further £50million investment for new buses has been allocated for 2005/06.
Cumulatively these factors are helping Translink meet the objectives of the Northern Ireland Regional Transportation Strategy, and are giving the travelling public greater choice and quality of service, along with improved access.
Also speaking at the official opening ceremony, Cllr Carmel O’Boyle, Chairman of Down District Council said:
“Today’s official opening marks an important development, not only for the people of Downpatrick, but for all those who live in and visit this area. Investment in a modern, purpose built facility such as this brings benefits to many people – on personal and commercial levels - and this in turn plays a vital role in the development of the local community. We are delighted to be involved today and to see how this project has come to such a fruitful conclusion.”
Jackie King, EU Funding Manager, from the Department for Regional Development said,
“This new Bus Centre in Downpatrick demonstrates the commitment of the Department for Regional Development to improving public transport in Northern Ireland. Improved public transport facilities can bring about a modal shift from the car, relieving congestion on roads and reducing the damage caused to the environment. An improved Public Transport system can also lead to improved access to job opportunities and social amenities.
“This new facility will provide for both passengers and staff the comforts that we all expect from a modern bus station and working environment including full provisions for the disabled.
She concluded, “Northern Ireland has been a major beneficiary of support from the European Union to improve the local infrastructure and funding in excess of £2m has been provided under the PEACE II programme”.
Ends
For further information contact Sarah Stanczyk, Translink Public Relations 028 90 899 455
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