The Minister said: "The aim of Belfast on the Move is to make the city centre more accessible to everyone. To achieve this we are encouraging the use of public transport for those who can readily access it and at the same time creating more road space for those who are simply unable to use public transport."
Following completion of the first phase of the works daily traffic flows in the city centre have reduced. Compared to October and November 2011, Metro services have increased by around 1500 passengers per day and the use of Belfast’s bus based Park and Ride services has risen by 15%.
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Phase two of Belfast on the Move will build on the success of the first phase of the works, which were completed last October. The Minister said: "Early indications are that Metro passenger numbers have increased, buses are getting through the city centre more quickly and services are more reliable. Passengers are seeing real benefits and the Park & Ride facilities serving Belfast have seen a marked increase in usage."
On the issue of the likely short term disruption caused by the work, the Minister said: "It is expected that, like phase 1, there will be a 'bedding in' period for the new works. We would therefore ask everyone to be patient and allow extra time for their journey.
"We will, of course, do all that we can to minimise disruption – work is scheduled to be carried out at off peak times to avoid undue delay to commuter traffic; and resurfacing will be carried out at weekends and overnight where possible."
Turning to the wider context, the Minister said that Belfast on the Move is one element of a move to more sustainable travel which also includes the development of additional park & ride spaces; providing an attractive alternative for car drivers.
(CD)
