Alliance Requests Return Of Translink Late-Night Christmas Services

An Alliance Councillor has said he is formally asking Belfast City Council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee to write to Translink to request the return of the late-night Christmas services.

Belfast City Councillor, Micky Murray, made the comments after Translink had previously announced it was looking into extending the services beyond the Christmas period.

Last year, the late-night service was 'very successful' during the festive period.

In a statement, Micky Murray said: "Following last year's very successful late-night public transport, Translink announced in January that there would be late-night service options to extend throughout the year. So, it's very disappointing to hear that these services may not be repeated in December as they were last year," said Belfast City Councillor Micky Murray.

"Belfast boasts a vibrant nightlife and a growing night-time economy, but unfortunately, it is being stunted by the lack of public transport after 11pm. Private hire taxis have a monopoly in the city during these hours, and it’s been well-documented that fairs increase significantly after 11pm.

"If Translink is serious about helping to develop our city and our night-time economy then they need to provide late-night transport over the Christmas period at the very least and take steps towards extending these services throughout the year.

"I’m formally asking Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee to write to Translink to request these services be repeated."