Residents in Carryduff and Glengormley have expressed disappointment over the recent announcement pausing Glider plans. The Department for Infrastructure had aimed for the route to be operational by 2030. BBC News NI spoke to locals to gauge their reactions to the news.
In Carryduff, Karen McKenna shared her disappointment, citing the area’s growing population and increased pressure on the roads as reasons for needing improved transport options. She emphasized the impact on daily commuting into town, mentioning how it influences decisions to stay in the area for her daughters. Roy Fallis also highlighted the absence of a bank in Carryduff, indicating the importance of adequate bus services for pensioners and residents.
Meanwhile, in Glengormley, concerns were raised about the halted Glider plans. Paula Toner expressed disappointment, especially for the elderly in the area, who would have benefited from the new transport route. Gerald McGarva and Ania Tabor, both residents reliant on Metro services, noted the current challenges with bus services, citing issues with reliability and capacity.
Despite the setbacks, Anne Madden from Sustrans NI remains optimistic about the potential of the Glider route. She highlighted the positive impact seen in the initial phase of the Glider’s introduction and emphasized the importance of extending the service to benefit residents in commuter belts like Carryduff and Glengormley. Madden sees the paused plans as a temporary setback due to financial constraints but views the upcoming BRT2 project as a step in the right direction towards providing a comprehensive Glider service in the future
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