Translink has marked the first anniversary of the award-winning York Street Station with a special community celebration and the unveiling of a new public artwork by Katye-Louise Richardson, a student from Belfast School of Art, Ulster University.
Katye-Louise is the winner of the Translink Belfast School of Art Student Public Art Competition, part of the university’s landmark 175th anniversary celebrations.
Her artwork, ‘Reflections’, was officially revealed at the station in the presence of community representatives, local artists, students, and civic leaders who have all played a key role in the regeneration of the area.
Since opening in April 2024, York Street Station has transformed travel in North Belfast, welcoming over 750,000 passenger journeys in just 12 months – a figure that continues to grow. Anti-social behaviour has fallen by 75%, and the station is now recognised as a vital gateway to the city, delivering wider benefits for the local economy, education, and quality of life.
The station plays a major role in the ongoing regeneration of the area, with continued work involving local schools, artists, and community groups to ensure it remains a welcoming, safe, and inspiring public space. Thanks to its proximity to Ulster University’s Belfast campus, York Street Station has become known as “the students’ station” – a key link for the next generation of Northern Ireland’s artists, designers, engineers, and innovators.
Colin Davidson, Chancellor of Ulster University, praised Katye-Louise’s achievement, saying:
“As Chancellor of Ulster University, I am immensely proud that Katye-Louise’s work will grace the walls of Belfast’s impressive York Street Station. Her success captures the spirit of creativity, community, and excellence that Ulster University has championed throughout our 175-year history.”
Speaking at the event, Brian Dixon, Head of Belfast School of Art, added:
“Partnerships like this show the power of public art to connect people and enhance everyday environments. Katye-Louise’s work is a testament to the talent we have at the Belfast School of Art and the importance of giving young artists a platform in civic spaces.”
Mark Montgomery, Translink Route Manager, said:
“York Street Station has transformed transport in the area – it has created a shared space that reflects and connects this community. One year on, we’re proud to see how it’s changed the area for the better – with growing passenger numbers, a dramatic cut in anti-social behaviour, and nearly 3,000 people engaged through our creative and community programmes. Today’s unveiling of Katye-Louise’s artwork is another step in celebrating local talent and the pride people feel in this place.”
Katye Louise Richardson said:
“It’s been a huge honour to create a piece for such an important public space. ‘Reflections’ is about recognising the journeys we all take – not just by train, but in life – and I wanted it to feel uplifting and grounded in the energy of the local area. To be from this area – five minutes from the station – and have my work here permanently is a real privilege.”
Translink continues to play an active role in the York Street community, working with Currie Primary, Holy Family Primary, and Belfast Royal Academy, while also strengthening long-standing partnerships with Ulster University. New collaborations, such as the Hit the North Street Art Festival, are helping to further engage the local community and enhance the station’s surroundings. York Street Station has become a model for how transport hubs across the UK and Ireland can serve and inspire the communities around them.
Designed with accessibility at its heart, York Street Station offers step-free access, lifts, tactile paving, and clear signage throughout. Whether you’re a passenger using a wheelchair, an older passenger, someone with a hidden disability, or travelling with young children, the station offers a space that feels safe, easy to navigate, and truly welcoming.
York Street Station reflects Translink’s commitment to creating inclusive, people-first transport hubs that empower everyone to travel with confidence and dignity and be better connected.
Learn more about the Belfast School of Art’s 175th anniversary celebrations, including exhibitions, workshops, and lectures, at: The 175 Programme – Belfast School of Art at ulster.ac.uk/bsoa.