Star readers give their views on Translink

Translink officials met with Lagan Valley political representatives recently to discuss the bus and train service performances in Lisburn and, when we highlighted the story Star readers were only too willing to offer suggestions about developing bus and train services in the city .

“Late night buses at weekends to and from Belfast. Taxis too expensive,” said Elizabeth Murray.

Tom Porter said: “Have you ever tried getting transport from Belfast to Lisburn after 11.00pm? - Ridiculous.”

“We need later Flexi Bus Services around Ballymacash,” according to Samantha Buchanan,

Samuel Brayshay said: “Since they took away the bus stop at Shannon’s people have even less reason to come up to that end of town. What’s with the taking away of half the taxi stand up there too?

Stuart Brown, believes that a new bus station beside the train station is needed “for connecting services like Great Victora Street.”

Meanwhile, Lorna Clarke was full of praise of the transport system.

“Use the train each day to great Victoria Street,” she said.

“No complaints. Staff friendly. Trains are packed but that’s normal at rush hour.”

The meeting with political representatives was held at Lisburn Buscentre.

Translink Service Delivery Manager, Jim McCauley, said: “We informed politicians about plans to construct a new footbridge at Moira Train Station, plans to develop a Park & Ride facility at Lisburn West Train Station and proposals for a new minibus fleet.

“We also encourage local people to choose Smartlink travelcards and enjoy excellent value for money.

“We launched our ‘Life’s better’ campaign highlighting ways using the bus or train can help make lives better.

“We are bringing our ‘Life’s better’ roadshow to Bow Street Mall on March 29 – 30.”