Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd has been given a tour of Belfast's new Grand Central Station ahead of its phased operational opening next weekend.

Funded by the Department for Infrastructure the new multi-modal hub will provide greater capacity with an increase to 26 bus stands, 8 railway platforms as well as cycle and taxi provision to deliver enhanced connectivity and encourage sustainable active travel for a healthier city.

Following the tour, Minister O'Dowd said: "I am committed to delivering improved public transport services and encouraging more people to use sustainable travel methods. The new Grand Central Station, funded by my Department, will have a pivotal role to play in achieving that goal. It will transform public transport, drive economic development and play an important role in tacking the climate emergency.

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"I was pleased to have the opportunity to tour the new station ahead of the phased opening next weekend to learn more about the new facilities, the work that has been carried out, and to meet with Translink staff and contractors who have been working hard to deliver this Flagship project. I was particularly keen to hear about the active travel elements and the community and placemaking engagement being delivered.

"From Sunday 8 September buses operating from the Europa Bus Centre will move to the new station and rail services will commence soon after. I know there has been some disruption for commuters while the works are underway and this will continue to the end of 2025 to allow the remaining street works and public realm to be completed. Having seen the fantastic new facilities and heard in more detail about the enhanced services I can assure everyone that it will be worth the wait."