Scrapped Easibus route was duplicated by city network

The bus service - mainly serving people with mobility impairments - was scrapped last June and cost Translink approximately 180,000 to operate over the previous three years.

The city's sole Easibus service was subsidised to the tune of approximately 97,800 by the Department of Regional Development (DRD) during that time.

According to the DRD Draft Budget 2011-15 the Department is now considering reviewing similar Easibus services in Belfast with a view to ending support by March 2014 in order to save money.

DRD does not consider this would have a negative impact on front line services stating:

"Easibus services in Belfast and Derry were recently reviewed and it is considered that they are no longer required as they are largely duplicated by the existing bus network.

"The Department will work with Translink and local stakeholders to make adjustments to the existing network to ensure that the transport needs of Easibus users are met where possible."

Considering the potential effect on equality, good relations and sustainable development the document accepts that: "The withdrawal of Easibus services may have a negative impact on women, older people (over 45), and people with disabilities, as surveys have identified these groups as the main users of the services."

But it says this is outweighed by the fact that: "Removal of Easibus is in cognisance of improved accessibility to current scheduled town services following significant investment in upgrading of the Ulsterbus fleet since Easibus was introduced."

The scrapped Waterside service used to run from Londonderry city centre to Drumahoe serving many areas of the Waterside including King Street,

Glendermott Road, Rossdowney Road, Kilfennan, Woodburn, Lisnagelvin, Irish Street and Altnagelvin.