Bus services in Ballyclare to be enhanced, says MP

That was the claim made by South Antrim MP Danny Kinahan this week following a meeting with the public transport provider’s Group Chief Executive and Northern Area Manager.

Rumours have been rife in the town over the past few months that the depot could be facing the axe due to cutbacks and changes to services. However, Translink has given assurances that the Mill Road site will stay open as a passenger facility.

Following a recent meeting with senior Translink officials to discuss the future of bus services in the town, Mr Kinahan said he was “delighted to be able to report on some Christmas cheer for the travelling public of Ballyclare.”

“Following urgent talks with passengers, drivers and the senior management team at Translink we have been able to clarify the problems and iron out some of the kinks with the new system,” the UUP man explained.

“Instead of watching the wind down of the bus depot in Ballyclare, constructive negotiations have in fact resulted in a commitment to enhance both the service and the station itself. There is also a commitment from Translink to consult more widely in future to ensure that the people of Ballyclare enjoy the first rate transport service that local drivers want to provide.”

Mr Kinahan, who revealed that his constituency office was “inundated with irate callers” after the rumour spread that the bus station would be closing, added: “This good news is timely as shoppers and revellers make their last minute Christmas preparations and shows what we can do if we all work together to highlight problems as they arise.

“I very much look forward to the rejuvenated transport arrangements taking shape and hope that they will make Ballyclare an even better place to live and work.”

Despite Mr Kinahan’s assurances over the future of the local depot, a spokesperson for Translink declined to comment on his claim that the facility and services are to be enhanced.

“We are committed to ensuring that Ballyclare Bus Station continues to meet the needs of our customers and will continue to engage with passengers and local stakeholders to ensure we provide attractive bus services that offer good value,” she said.