Hamilton pleased at new Goldliners

At a showcase of one of the new vehicles, Mrs Hamilton said it was “very appropriate” that Translink had invested in their fleet, given the growth in numbers using public transport in the Londonderry District.

The funding came from the Northern Ireland Executive through the Departments for Regional Development and Enterprise, Trade and Investment through the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme.

“I am delighted that the 12 new coaches will be used to operate services in the north west, primarily on the 212 route between here and Belfast,” she said.

The Goldline 212 service carries over 800,000 passengers every year.

Welcoming political and community representatives on board the new Scania Caetano coaches, Translink Northern Area Manager, Simon Corrigan, said there has been a 53 per cent increase in Goldline passengers across Northern Ireland over the last decade.

“Investment in Goldline is paying-off; we want to showcase the range of features and passenger benefits that are attracting more and more people to travel on board this modern coach service.

“Our fleet of Goldline coaches offer free Wi-Fi, comfortable leather seating, generous legroom, modern interior surroundings, automatic climate control, security CCTV, tinted and double-glazed windows – all of which provide a comfortable and relaxed journey experience.

“We are delighted to be able to introduce these 12 new double decker coaches to the north nest ahead of the 25th Anniversary of our 212 Goldline service, which takes place this April.

Enhanced features include seat charging points for mobile devices, increased capacity with 76 seats, low floor accessibility and improved fuel efficiency.