Date for first connections to Grand Central Station has been set

The date for the first services from the new Belfast Grand Central Station has been set.

From 8 September, buses currently operating from the Europa Buscentre will operate from the new station.

Train connections will follow, date to be confirmed.

The work in the public space around the station will continue until 2025.

“Exciting milestone”

Employees are being trained in preparation for the move. In addition, a test, training and commissioning program is being carried out for the connecting line and the new signaling technology.

Chris Conway, managing director of Translink, described it as “a really exciting milestone”.

“The new station and associated railway, signalling and public areas are groundbreaking innovations that will inspire people to use more sustainable transport options and create a better connected, cleaner and healthier region for all,” he said.

“We know there is great interest and anticipation for the new facility, which will help realise the true potential of our region as a great place to live, work and visit,” he said.

Belfast’s new transport hub

Construction work on Grand Central Station is in its final stages.

The hub is located near the current Europa Bus Centre and Great Victoria Street station, which closed earlier this year.

There will be 26 bus stops and eight railway platforms, as well as facilities for bicycles and taxis.

According to Translink, the new station can handle up to 20 million passenger journeys per year.

Early forecasts had estimated the cost of implementing the project at £200 million.

In April it was reported that costs had risen to £340 million.

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