Translink Start Express Service To Cope With Glider Demand

High demand for Belfast's new Glider service in the East of the city has prompted Translink to introduce a new express bus service.

The Urby express bus service will be introduced during the morning rush hour, from Dundonald Park and Ride, and a return service from the Europa during peak times in the evening and afternoon.

It comes as Translink reported a 17% growth in passenger numbers, that caused some passengers to complain of overcrowding on the service.

Ian Campbell, Director of Operations at Translink said: "The east Belfast route has been particularly successful, with increasing numbers of passengers at Glider halts on the Newtownards Road.

"Building on this success, from Monday 22 October we will introduce a new Urby express bus service, number 655, from Dundonald Park & Ride, similar to services at other Park and Ride sites."

The service into the city centre will depart at 7.20am, 7.45am, 8.20am and 8.45am, picking up at Cherry Hill and Ulster Hospital.

The return route will run during the afternoon and evening peak period from Europa Buscentre at 3.50pm, 4.25pm, 5pm, and 5.40pm, picking up at Custom House Square and Lanyon Place.

Mr Campbell added: "The Urby service will complement other services in the east of the city including Glider, as we progress through the busy autumn and run up to Christmas."



(JG/MH)