New bus station for Banbridge

The site will accommodate up to four buses off street helping to reduce congestion on the main Banbridge throughway at peak times.

Danny Kennedy said: “Banbridge is a busy commuter town with thousands of people travelling to work and schools outside the Banbridge area every day. It is clear that the existing bus stop infrastructure can be improved upon which is why I have decided to move ahead with this scheme.

“This new passenger facility will provide a more comfortable and better waiting environment making bus services more attractive to use by the local community.”

Catherine Mason, Group Chief Executive of Translink said, “We are pleased that the Minister has secured the funding and land to progress this initiative and our project team will be working hard to complete it on schedule. Providing attractive waiting facilities is important to our customers and we hope this new scheme when finished together with our range great value tickets and free WIFI on board most of our Goldline Services will encourage more local people to travel by bus and coach.

Work is due to start Summer 2013 and will be completed by the end of 2013.

Existing bus stop arrangements at Church Square will be retained.