SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly has welcomed plans for the return of late night bus and train services into Belfast city centre this Christmas.

Mrs Kelly contacted Translink and SDLP Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon to establish if there were plans for the return of the ‘Night Movers’ service which was piloted by Translink in the past.

Translink have confirmed they are exploring the possibility of resuming the service.

Minister Mallon said the resumption of the service would provide much needed support to the hospitality industry in the run up to Christmas.

The Upper Bann MLA said:

“This service has proved very popular in the past, allowing people from outside Belfast to travel into the city to avail of late night shopping and to visit the Christmas markets and other seasonal attractions that pop up at this time of year.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on our retail sector and our people, with many businesses closed and families stuck at home for long periods of time in order to comply with restrictions. Last Christmas was like no other with many people forced to forgo their usual traditions like meeting up with family and friends and they will want to make up for that this year.

“This service would go a long way to encourage people to visit Belfast this Christmas time. It will attract more customers to our retail and hospitality businesses and cut down on congestion from those travelling into the city at a busy time of year. Late bus and train services would also ensure people can get home quickly and safely.

“I welcome the commitment from Translink to explore the return of these much-appreciated and used services and hope more details will become available soon.”