13/12/2004

Public transport to get £50m boost

Almost £50 million is to be spent on improving public transport in Northern Ireland, it was announced today.

The investment by Translink will see 300 new ‘Metro buses’ introduced towards the end of 2005.

The new buses will be fitted with features like digital CCTV, anti-lock brakes and air-conditioning and will comply with the latest European Commission emission and noise targets.

Commenting on the investment, Translink Chairman, Dr Joan Smyth CBE said: “Today marks the latest milestone in the regeneration and transformation of Northern Ireland’s public transport services. We believe this financial support to be largest single investment for buses in the history of Citybus and Ulsterbus.

“We are indebted to the government once again for having the foresight to allocate such significant investment in public transport.”

Translink Chief Executive, Mr Keith Moffatt said the new buses would effectively “reduce the fleet age and will clearly play a key role in maximising growth in patronage in line with Regional Transportation Strategy targets”.

The General Consumer Council also welcomed today’s announcement saying that along with the new trains, public transport was set to become a more attractive option for passengers.

(MB/SP)

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