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Transport

Bus at bus stop Here you can read useful information about transport. Select a topic to find out more.

Public transport in and around Belfast

Translink operate the Metro public bus services in Belfast. Buses run every 5 to 10 minutes during peak times of the day (Monday to Friday) along main roads in Belfast. Metro buses are low floor vehicles and 70% of Metro buses allow wheelchair access with space for one wheelchair.

Call 028 9066 6630 for information on timetables (Monday to Sunday 7am to 8pm), textphone 028 9038 7505 or visit the Translink website

Accessible facilities at bus stations

In Belfast there are two main Ulsterbus stations: Laganside and the Europa Bus Centre. Both stations have ramp and level access for wheelchairs as well as wheelchair accessible toilets.

For information on the accessibility of bus stations visit the Out and About website. You can also request a copy of the 'integrated access guide to bus and rail passenger facilities' from Translink by phoning 028 9089 9400.

Public services outside Belfast and accessibility

Ulsterbus serves other towns and villages across Northern Ireland as well as services to and from Belfast. For more information, visit the Translink website

Translink has an accessible timetable for services across Northern Ireland outlining bus services and routes that are accessible to wheelchairs. You can get this timetable from bus or train stations or by phoning 028 9066 6630.

Translink recommend that when planning a journey, passengers should always make them aware of any assistance required. It is important to note that only one wheelchair space is available on a bus. This space can be reserved by giving Translink at least 24 hours notice. To reserve a wheelchair space phone Translink on 028 9066 6630.

Trains

Translink run train services to and from Belfast daily. Older people who have a senior SmartPass can travel for free.

Accessible trains and facilities

Translink operates trains which have special features that help passengers board or leave the train as well as features inside the train such as wheelchair accessible toilets.

Call 028 9066 6630 (Monday to Sunday 7am to 8pm) for information on accessible facilities and timetables or visit the Translink website

Concessionary fare scheme - SmartPass

Free travel is available to all senior citizens who are 65 years of age or over and who are resident in Northern Ireland. You can travel anywhere in Northern Ireland on any Translink bus or rail service completely free of charge. You can also enjoy free cross border rail travel.

To apply for a senior SmartPass, you can obtain an application form from any main bus or rail station or phone Translink on 028 9066 6630 or visit the Translink website

Translink Passenger Charter and access policy

Tranlink's access policy contains information and advice on how to use their services, information for customers with disabilities or mobility problems, and contact numbers to help you plan your journey. You can get a copy by phoning Translink on 028 9066 6630 or visit the Translink website

If you have any comments, suggestions or complaints on any aspect of Translink services contact:

Additional transport services

Bus service to Roselawn Cemetery and City of Belfast Crematorium

Belfast City Council currently runs a free bus service to and from Roselawn Cemetery and the City of Belfast Crematorium for older people who live in the council's electoral area.

Shopmobility Belfast

Shopmobility Belfast is a charitable organisation that provides free daily loan and long-term loan (small cost) of electric scooters, powered wheelchairs and manual wheelchairs. They can also provide information on blue badges, door-2-door service and Motability Radar keys.

Anyone who finds access to the city centre difficult, including older people and people with disabilities, can use this service.

For more information, visit telephone 028 9080 8090 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), email info@shopmobilitybelfast.co.uk or visit www.shopmobilitybelfast.co.uk

Wheelchair sources for hire or purchase

Below you will find a list of organisations who hire out wheelchairs for people with temporary or occasional needs. If you need further information please contact them on the telephone number provided.

Door to door

If you have a disability, or cannot use ordinary public transport and do not have access to a car, there are a number of door to door transport schemes in Belfast that you may be able to use. The following organisations and telephone number are door to door schemes available in Belfast.

Disability Action

Disability Action offers a door-to-door bus service for people who receive certain government benefits and those referred by GPs. Membership is free, however there is a fare system in place.

For more information, contact the Department for Regional Development on 028 9054 0252 (Textphone 028 9054 0642) for an application form or apply online on the NI direct website

To book a journey call 028 9029 7870 (if you live in Belfast) or textphone 028 9029 7882. You will need to book at least 24 hours in advance.

Red Cross transport and escort service

Red Cross volunteer drivers provide transport to appointments and other important activities. The service is available to anyone with limited mobility or without access to other forms of suitable transport. Clients can be private individuals, or organisations wishing to arrange this on behalf of others.

For further information, contact the Red Cross on 028 9024 6400.

Community Transport

Community transport operators provide transport where there is limited public transport or where conventional transport is not appropriate for the passengers' needs. Community transport can be used for travel to shops or to appointments. Community transport provides affordable, accessible transport for individuals or community groups and associations. There are three providers of community transport in the Belfast area.

For further information or to access these services, please telephone any of the organisations listed below.

Transport fact sheet

This fact sheet contains information on ways you can travel, including by bus, train, car, taxi, plane, boat and cycling.

Seniors info

Download the transport fact sheet (Word - 80KB)