Supporters of Tranlink’s newly launched Better on Board Charter gathered at the North West Transport Hub, Derry~Londonderry. Pictured L-R: Ian Campbell, Translink, Anne Doherty, Ulster University, Anna Doherty, Derry Chamber, Louise Connor, Western Trust, Michele Murphy, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Francine Moran, North West Regional College, Odhran Dunne, Visit Derry, Karen Smyth, Consumer Council NI, Mark Montgomery, Translink, Rebekah McGilloway, FinTrU, Conor McCormick, Alchemy, Caroline Coyle, NI Chamber, Alan Young, Translink.
The initiative, which brings together local leaders, businesses and organisations, encourages greater public transport use as part of a collective effort to reduce emissions, ease congestion and enhance air quality in the city – which has become a leading example for sustainable travel in Northern Ireland.
Since launching in September 2023, Translink’s zero emission Foyle Metro service has facilitated over 3 million passenger journeys, covering more than 1.3 million emissions-free miles – the equivalent of over 50 trips around the world. The service has also saved over 2,000 tonnes of CO2, reducing pollution and supporting a healthier region.
Backed by stakeholders representing various sectors and industries, the Better on Board Charter is an important collaborative response to drive forward modal shift to public transport.
In conjunction with the Belfast edition of the Charter, the initiative has launched with more than 20 initial partners who collectively represent more than 100,000 people across Northern Ireland – and around 25,000 in Derry~Londonderry alone.
Initial partners who have signed up to support the Better on Board Charter in the Northwest include: Alchemy, All State, City Centre Initiative, City Hotel Derry, Consumer Council NI, Derry Chamber of Commerce, FinTrU, Northern Ireland Chamber, North West Regional College, Sustrans, Ulster University, Visit Derry, and Western Health & Social Care Trust.
By supporting the Charter, these organisations have acknowledged the importance of commuters choosing public transport for the social, economic and environmental well-being of Derry~Londonderry and the wider Northwest.
Speaking in the North West Multi-Modal Transport Hub, Ian Campbell, Translink Director of Service Operations, said: “Launching the Better on Board Charter in Derry~Londonderry is an important step forward as we continue our efforts to drive modal shift towards sustainable travel.
“The city has already demonstrated climate action leadership, with the operation of the fully zero emission Foyle Metro fleet, and we are pleased to build on this momentum.
“We’re also delighted to announce this initiative with the backing of several key partners, and we warmly invite more businesses and organisations to join us on this vital journey.
“By working together, we can make a real difference in reducing our emissions, enhancing air quality, and championing healthier and more active travel choices across the city.”
Translink is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and operating a zero emission fleet right across Northern Ireland by 2040.
To find out more visit: translink.co.uk/betteronboard and follow Translink on social media.
