New Carrickfergus Park and Ride scheme given priority status

The project is one five included in the first phase of this year’s programme across Northern Ireland.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: “I have considered a number of factors such as the growing demand for Park and Ride facilities, existing public transport provision and land availability to assist me in reaching a decision to approve the first phase of park and rides for this year.

“In this first phase, projects in Downpatrick, Newtownards, Comber, Cairnshill Belfast and Trooperslane Carrickfergus will be advanced. All of these projects will service busy commuter routes and when complete will provide 2,030 spaces.”

Chris Conway, Translink Group chief executive, has welcomed the announcement.

Mr Conway said: “These new and extended Park and Ride sites located on key busy commuter routes from Newtownards (bus), Comber (bus), Cairnshill (bus), Downpatrick (bus) and Trooperslane in Carrickfergus (rail) will be vital as we work to build back more responsibly from the impact of Covid-19.

“Park and Ride had been a growing market pre-Covid with more commuters enjoying the benefits and convenience of easy parking and transfer to frequent and good value bus, coach and train services avoiding traffic congestion and cutting their own carbon footprint as more people recognise their role in helping tackle climate change and improving air quality.

“We welcome these enhancements to Northern Ireland’s infrastructure which will help to support a greener recovery and a healthier and more sustainable environment for all as more people return to using public transport.”

In June, the minister announced £4million for Park and Ride sites and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council approved the Trooperslane proposal which will be able to accommodate 199 car parking spaces and a cycle park (read more here).

Minister Mallon added: “This is only the first phase of the expansion of Park and Ride programmes for this year. I will make a further announcement about other viable projects as soon as I can.

“I am committed to developing sustainable transport projects, greening our infrastructure and doing what I can to drive down emissions as quickly as possible. Park and Rides will give citizens the chance to use the public transport network as an alternative to commuting, helping to drive down congestion and emissions.”

--

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high-quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world.

The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you.