Local campaigners have said that they are delighted with the quick response from Translink after temporary bicycle parking has been put in place at Belfast Grand Central Station.
Belfast Cycle Campaign highlighted the lack of bicycle parking at the £340m transport hub on Monday. Translink, Northern Ireland’s public transport operator, quickly said that it would provide temporary parking ahead of permanent spaces being provided closer to the end of the project in late 2025.
The permanent spaces are being provided as part of the public realm works around the station, but bus services have already started at the station and train services are expected to be operational soon.
Today, the Belfast Cycle Campaign said: “Delighted with the swift response by Translink to our request for urgent, temporary cycle parking at Grand Central.”
The parking is being provided along the construction hoarding along Saltwater Lane and signage is planned to guide passengers to these temporary bike stands.
Translink told the campaigners that by next week, the company expects to have more than 30 cycle spaces available around the station, with one bike rack already installed on-site this week (pictured).
On Tuesday, in a response for comment from IrishCycle.com, a Translink spokesperson said: “With a clear focus on active travel, Belfast Grand Central Station will be a game changer helping inspire and reimagine the city – one where more people travel on public transport, walk, wheel and cycle.”
“Translink has been engaging with Sustrans and other stakeholders from the onset of this project to facilitate and encourage active travel. As part of the phased opening of Belfast Grand Central Station, we will provide temporary cycle parking in the coming weeks,” the spokesperson said.
They added: “When the entire project, including public realm space, is completed (late 2025) we will have provision to park over 200 cycles”.