Speaking about these latest results, Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said:
“In recent years we have started to transform our public transport network by putting our customers at the heart of everything we do. We have worked hard to deliver high quality bus and train services with great customer care and good value fares and it is good to see this is delivering record results across the board. Metro saw numbers soar to 28million, while rail passengers reached 15million – the highest in its 50-year history; there was also record growth in passengers choosing Ulsterbus Goldline, Park and Ride and Airport Express Services.
“Our customers are continuing to rate services highly with independent research released earlier in the year showing over 9 out of every 10 are satisfied with their overall service. Also NI Railways was ranked Number 1 above 27 other UK rail operators in an independent Which? Customer Satisfaction Survey examining everything from punctuality and reliability to seat availability and value for money.
“This is very encouraging as it clearly shows investing in our public transport infrastructure is right for our customers and is delivering on the ambition of the NI Executive Draft Programme for Government to increase the use of public transport.
“We are only at the start of our journey and we want to continue to build on this success. There are many exciting projects underway such as Glider, the iconic new mode of travel coming to Belfast in September, new ticketing that will transform how we buy our travel, new transport Hubs in Belfast and Derry~Londonderry, and a new station in Portrush which will play a key role in the 148th Open next year. We also have other park and ride schemes underway and new buses coming with latest passenger comfort features and technology such as WiFi, USB’s and mobile device cradles.
“We believe people are becoming ‘smarter’ travellers as there is increasing discontent with the daily commute. More people are looking for ways to get more ‘me time’, and taking the bus and train gives them that and more – for many it also helps them find the time for a more active and healthy lifestyle.
“Our plans to further improve our services will need sustainable funding going forward; we continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to demonstrate the merits of investing in our public transport infrastructure as a key enabler for economic growth, meeting social need and for our local environment to ensure our region continues to develop and prosper.
“With less than two weeks to Bus and Train Week 2018, I would encourage even more people to join the ‘smartmover generation’ and give the bus, train and coach a try and start enjoying the benefits of a better way to travel”, he concluded.
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