McGrath says a range of concerns were raised with the Translink Area Manager
Representatives from the local SDLP team visited the Translink depot in Downpatrick to discuss a range of issues affecting bus services across South Down and Strangford.
The meeting was attended by MLA Colin McGrath and local Councillors Aurla King and Terry Andrews. It was a useful and constructive meeting where a range of concerns that residents have brought to us were discussed with Area Manager for Translink Mr John Brown.
Commenting Colin McGrath MLA said “We discussed practical issues, including overhanging trees and branches causing damage to buses, and the need to ensure these problems are addressed so services can operate reliably.
“We also had a detailed discussion about bus timetables and the importance of making sure they reflect how people actually live their lives.
“It should enable people in our rural communities to travel into Downpatrick, Belfast and our coastal villages for work, education, shopping and socialising. Timetables need to support those journeys and give people confidence that public transport is a realistic option.”
Colin McGrath added: “it was a pleasure to meet with local artist Kieron Black too who is completing a mural at the front entrance to the Depot which has a special message as developed by local school children and will be launched soon.
“This type of community outreach is welcome to see.”
Cllr Andrews added “We also raised the need for greater investment in bus shelters, particularly in rural areas where many passengers are left waiting without adequate facilities.
“If we are serious about encouraging more people to use public transport, the infrastructure has to match that ambition.”
Cllr King said: “This was a positive engagement and we appreciate the time taken by the local Translink team to discuss these issues with us.
“As your local SDLP team we will continue to press these matters at both Council and in the Assembly to ensure South Down gets the public transport network it deserves.”
