Translink offers enhanced bus services now at Causeway and Antrim Hospitals

Following requests from the public, Translink and the Northern Trust worked together to integrate both health facilities into timetables to help meet the needs of hospital employees, patients and visitors.

Translink Goldline Express Service 218 now serves the Causeway Hospital supporting Coleraine Ulsterbus Town Service 319b which also stops at the facility.

Goldline Express Service 219 serves Antrim Area Hospital and supports Antrim Ulsterbus Town Service 321e which stops at the hospital.

Speaking about the hospital services, Translink North Eastern Area Manager, Arthur Hamilton, said: “People can now choose from either Town Services or Goldline to make hassle-free journeys to and from the hospital with better journey frequency to choose from. It is also a more sustainable, relaxing and healthier way to travel compared to using the car.

“Travelling by car can be expensive while the bus or coach offers good value for money. For example, a Smartlink day travelcard costs just £2.30 (Antrim)/£2.40 (Coleraine) or a weekly travelcard is just £9 for travel on Town Services – which is great for anyone travelling from Antrim or Coleraine directions to their local hospital.

“Anyone travelling between Coleraine, Antrim and Belfast can also currently enjoy a third-off Goldline day return tickets. Our Smartlink and iLink travelcards will also provide cost-savings for passengers travelling on a more regular basis on Goldline*,” said Arthur.

Judy Nelson, General Manager for Site Support and Facilities, Northern Health & Social Care Trust, said: “We welcome the opportunity to support any improvement for people using our hospitals. These more frequent bus services will be of value to visitors and patients, who regularly attend clinics at either Coleraine or Antrim, and to staff travelling from one area to the other,” said Judy.

For further information call the Translink contact centre on 90 66 66 30, your local station or click www.translink.co.uk