worries about inadequate bus stops found at the brand-new £54m Antrim college campus

In the heart of Co Antrim, the Northern Regional College, a new £54 million campus, is set to open its doors this week. However, concerns about the lack of public transport facilities have cast a shadow over the much-anticipated event.

The college, one of the flagship projects in the development of a large area that includes the grounds of a former British army base, is located next to a new £7.5m link road. Yet, the absence of bus stops at the St Patrick's Link Road and the lack of lay-bys on the road have left students and staff facing a significant walk from the town's bus and train station.

A mother of a student expressed her concern about her son having to walk a significant distance, especially in winter. She suggested a bus that drives along the road beside the college as a better solution. Similarly, a number of college staff are astonished by the absence of public transport provision for the college. Concerns about public transport were also raised by some students and parents at the college open day.

Northern Ireland's public transport company, Translink, has stated that buses cannot safely take students to or from the college due to the lack of lay-bys or bus stops on the road. However, the Department for Infrastructure has clarified that the absence of a lay-by on the road does not preclude future provision of public transport services.

The Department for Infrastructure also stated that the road design was in accordance with relevant guidelines from 2017. The college plans to engage with other stakeholders to improve transportation links for the future.

Translink is exploring options to serve the NRC campus, but currently, there is no facility within the campus to accommodate the safe set down and pick-up of bus passengers. Another option for students or staff is to take another bus from the station to the stop closest to the college, which is approximately three quarters of a mile away.

The Northern Regional College offers a wide range of vocational, technical, and professional education. With up to 1,600 students expected to attend, the need for efficient transportation solutions has become increasingly apparent.

The link road was built to improve access to an area of Ballymena designated for new development and regeneration. As the college settles into its new home, the hope is that a lasting solution to the transportation issue will be found, ensuring a smooth journey for all students and staff in the years to come.

worries about inadequate bus stops found at the brand-new £54m Antrim college campus