Concerns Tranlink are set to axe town service

15 October 2014

FEARS are growing that Translink could axe its town centre service in Ballynahinch.
The transport company is currently reviewing the service which operates along three different routes due to low passenger numbers.
One concerned resident who contacted the Recorder and did not wish to be named, said the axing of the service would be a “body blow” to the people who use it.
“We have a high number of old people and young families in the town centre area who do not have their own cars and rely on public transport,” the resident said.
“I believe this service must be retained. If it is removed, it will create major difficulties for many residents.”
Down Council chairman Billy Walker described the service as an “important link” for many people who do not have access to their own transport.
He plans to contact Translink officials to discuss the future of a service he believes provides a “lifeline” for many senior citizens who live at the Carlisle Park and Langley Road housing areas in particular.
Councillor Walker said a bus service from Ballynahinch town centre to the Spa was axed last year with low passenger numbers the reason given by Translink for justifying the decision.
“People do use the town service in Ballynahinch and I hope it is retained. I will be making a case for this to happen with senior Translink officials,” he continued.
“I regularly see people using the service, bringing them into the heart of the town to visit the Post Office and to do their shopping. It’s essential this link remains.”
He said many senior citizens would not be able to walk from their homes on the periphery of the town to do their shopping if the service was not available.
“I recognise that the service is currently being reviewed and that no final decision has been taken. That said, I would appeal to more people to make the most of these important bus routes.”
A Translink spokeswoman confirmed while the Ballynahinch town service was currently being reviewed, no decision had been made to suspend it.
She said the review has been ordered as a result of the low numbers of passengers using the service.

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