Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has opened new Park and Ride facilities at Translink’s Jordanstown Train station.

Mr Kennedy said: "The new Park and Ride facility provides 66 car parking spaces at Jordanstown Station. I am confident these spaces, which include four spaces for people with disabilities, will help to accommodate the growing passenger numbers and alleviate traffic congestion in the area. It will further benefit the East Antrim community and help to attract more people to choose the train.

"The opening of this new facility is timely, as it will support the new Class 4000 trains now operating on the Larne line and help attract additional customers on board particularly with the A2 road works scheduled to start in spring 2013. This Park and Ride will also add to the facilities already in place at Carrickfergus, Greenisland and Whiteabbey."

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The Minister added: "Last year the Department for Regional Development published a Strategic Review of Park and Ride, which recognised the need to integrate with Translink bus and rail services. That report highlighted the importance of Park and Ride in promoting sustainable transport."

John Trethowan, chairman, Translink/NITHC, said: "Park and Ride facilities make rail services more attractive, accessible and provide meaningful integration for our customers. Jordanstown is a busy station and this new facility gives commuters better convenience and peace of mind that their car is left in a safe location.

"Secure fencing, gates, new lighting, signage and CCTV have been installed. The facility is also easily accessible from both Lynda Avenue and there is pedestrian access from the car park to the station platform.

"Its opening follows the recent launch of free WiFi onboard rail services and, with the arrival of 20 new trains, it really is a good time to try the train."