“The introduction of late-night bus services across Belfast is a landmark moment for our city. For too long, lack of safe, affordable transport has been the single biggest barrier to unlocking the full potential of the night-time economy which our research has estimated is worth £3.7 billion to local economy . These new services will not only help customers stay later – they will also be a lifeline for the thousands of hospitality workers, venue staff, shift workers and health service employees who keep our city running at night.
“This announcement follows an 18-month campaign led by myself, the three Belfast BIDs and the Purple Flag network – engaging our local, elected representatives, securing research that proved the economic case, and rallying more than 1,000 local businesses behind a shared vision.
“I want to thank the Executive Depts, Belfast City Council and Translink for responding to that call and committing to real action. My priority now is ensuring the rollout is safe, reliable and responsive to public demand – so whether you’re catching the last show, finishing a late shift, or enjoying a night out, Belfast finally works for everyone, day and night.”
Christopher McCracken, Chair of Purple Flag and Managing Director, Linen Quarter BID added;
“With confirmation of funding for late-night transport and a forthcoming announcement from the Economy and Infrastructure Ministers, we are delighted to see this long-championed project now moving towards delivery. In Belfast alone the night-time economy is estimated to be worth £802 million and supports 26,000 jobs. This initiative could inject a further £2.5 million GVA every year into Belfast’s supporting more jobs, stimulating investment, and helping our city centre to thrive after dark.
“This success is the result of an extraordinary collective effort. Over the past 18 months, the Night Czar, the three Belfast BIDs (Belfast One BID, Cathedral Quarter BID, Belfast & Linen Quarter BID) and the Purple Flag partnership have worked tirelessly, holding more than 200 meetings with Ministers, MLAs and senior officials, launching a petition backed by over 1,000 businesses, and commissioning both consumer and economic research to make the case for change.
“We want to thank the Department for the Economy NI, Department for Infrastructure, Belfast City Council and our city partners for listening and acting. Linen Quarter BID will now work closely with Translink and stakeholders to ensure the service launches smoothly and delivers real impact for the city’s economy and people.”
Read the full announcement here: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/news/ministers-kimmins-and-archibald-welcome-executive-support-late-night-public-transport-services
