Late Night Bus Service Pilot Launched

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Age Friendly, in partnership with County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN), the Down Senior Forum, and Translink launched a Pilot Late Night Bus Service, on Wednesday 14 November 2018 at Downpatrick Bus Station.

The pilot provides late bus services to both Lisburn and Sprucefield shopping centres, with a bus leaving at 5.30pm from Downpatrick Bus Station and leaving for Downpatrick at 9.30pm. The pilot scheme began operation on Thursday, 22 November and will continue on Thursday, 6 December and Thursday, 20 December. Normal bus rates will apply and this service will be free for those with smart passes.

The scheme was developed in response to local concerns relating to rural isolation across the district. The service will help people get greater access to services, leisure, and social opportunities for those living outside Downpatrick.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said, “We are delighted to launch this valuable service in partnership with Translink, NMDDC Age Friendly, CDRCN and the Down Senior Forum. This pilot service will benefit people across the district by helping them to stay connected and by providing additional support to those who are particularly vulnerable and isolated in our communities. I would encourage everyone to use this excellent service.”

Ciaran McHugh, Service Delivery Manager, Translink commented, “As an organisation and a first choice for public transport, we are delighted to be involved in this very worthwhile initiative along with Council, the Down Senior Forum and CDCRN. It is our hope that participants and their families will be able to enjoy and use the service provided. We thank the local representatives for all their support in the lead-up to this initiative and throughout the scheme.”

Hugh Scott from Down Senior Forum said, “As a Forum, we are pleased to see these additional bus services operating during the run up to Christmas."

For timetables and additional information, please go online to www.translink.co.uk or contact Downpatrick Bus Centre (09:00am-5:00pm) at 028 4461 2384.