Northern Ireland Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has joined Translink staff to celebrate the first anniversary of the £340 million Grand Central Station, the country's largest transport hub.

Serving as the city's main terminus, the station features 26 bus stands and eight rail platforms, improving connectivity and integration across public transport. Public realm works continue around the station to enhance access and circulation.

Speaking at Grand Central, Minister Kimmins said: "I am delighted to be here today to wish Translink many happy returns on this milestone which celebrates a significant investment in our transport infrastructure. As the largest integrated transport facility on the island of Ireland, catering for up to 20 million passenger journeys a year, it highlights the importance of infrastructure and the transformative changes it can bring."

Discussing Grand Central's first year in operation, Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway added: "This is a remarkable milestone that reflects strong public engagement and growing confidence in sustainable transport. The success and passenger growth demonstrates how investment in public transport is a catalyst for change.

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"I'd like to thank all our contractors, suppliers, customers, colleagues and everyone who has been part of the success of this impressive facility — we look forward to sharing the next exciting developments and realising the full potential of this award-winning station in supporting a successful, thriving Northern Ireland," Chris concluded.

Minister Kimmins has also outlined ongoing traffic management measures to maintain smooth movement in and around Belfast. These include reopening Durham Street to two-way traffic by the end of November and extending the hours of operation for bus lanes on key southern routes, including Ormeau Road and Saintfield Road. Smart sensor technology is being installed to provide real-time data at key locations, enabling responsive traffic management and evidence-based decision-making.

The current configuration at the Great Victoria Street, Grosvenor Road, and Howard Street junction, designed to accommodate increased pedestrian volumes, will be retained, along with temporary bus lanes on Great Victoria Street, Howard Street, Bruce Street, Dublin Road, and North Street. Arrangements allowing additional taxi classes to use specific bus lanes in Bruce Street, Dublin Road, Great Victoria Street, and Shaftesbury Square will also remain.

A communications strategy has been developed to inform the public about these measures and promote alternatives to private car use, including public transport, walking, cycling, and Park & Ride.