The Park ‘n’ Ride service is to be extended and planned roadworks on major routes in Derry will cease over the festive period, it has been announced.
The announcement was made by Transport Minister Danny Kennedy who revealed details of a festive package of public transport measures to help shoppers and traders in the run up to Christmas.
The measures will include the expansion of Park and Ride services, free of charge Park and Rides, fare promotions and an embargo on road works over the Christmas period.
All planned road works on key arterial routes in Derry will be cease between 25 November and 5 January with only emergency repair work will taking place.
The free Saturday Park and Ride service will start this Saturday with the evening service beginning on 2 December in line with late night shopping arrangements.
Mr Kennedy said the package of measures was to make public more accessible, low-cost and more attractive for people coming into the city centre of the festive period.
He added: “In doing so, these measures will also make it easier for those who need to use a car to park and drive within the cities.”
As a result Park and Rides in Derry, Belfast, Lisburn and Newry will be free of charge and will operate for longer hours during late night shopping days and also on Saturdays.
Minister Kennedy also revealed Translink would offer a number of “great fare deals” and promotions for bus and rail travel.”
Mr Kennedy said: “Traders have experienced a difficult time. The economic downturn has decreased footfall all around Northern Ireland as people have less disposable income. I am confident these measures will provide a welcome boost for traders.”
Mr Kennedy concluded: “Many shoppers who previously travelled by car gave public transport a try over the last year and no doubt many more will do so again this Christmas.”
Tags:
