Located in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland, the new North-West Multimodal Transport Hub promotes a shift away from car use by integrating local and cross-border public transport with the railway network. It provides a seamless service that allows users to switch between transport modes easily and strengthens links between urban and rural areas. The hub improves connections with existing networks for walking or cycling and the cross border greenway network, and delivers a range of active travel initiatives.
- 22 September 2021
‘The iconic Multimodal Transport Hub in Derry-Londonderry is an ambitious cross-border project that has the potential to transform travel across the North-West region, encouraging a modal shift in transport habits towards a ‘green recovery’.’
In its first phase, the project restored and refurbished the historic building in which the hub is housed; developed new platforms; track, signalling and telecommunications works; and established a travel centre and a greenway link with the city centre.
During the second phase, the old railway station was demolished and public areas were set up, along with a new bus-turning circle to make it easier to drop off and pick up passengers, and a park-and-ride facility with electric vehicle charging points.
Transforming travel patterns
North-western Northern Ireland has the highest levels of cross-border commuting on the island of Ireland. Much of this commuting is by car, primarily due to the limited integration of cross-border public transport. To foster economic growth by providing more sustainable public transport, the project brought together organisations from both sides of the border to develop the new hub.
By encouraging travellers to take the bus or train for longer journeys and to walk or cycle shorter distances, the hub is transforming travel patterns. This transformation promotes healthier lifestyles and creates opportunities for exercise in a safe, attractive environment.
In addition, getting people out of their cars cuts greenhouse gas and carbon emissions and reduces the burden on the road network.
A range of facilities
Before any definitive plans were drawn up, public meetings were held to determine where, out of four options, the hub would be located. A second round of consultations resulted in more room being allotted to public spaces and better facilities for people with disabilities.
During construction, which created some 270 jobs, newsletters were published to update residents on the work and give details of engagement events.
The refurbished historic building enhances the visitor experience, while the travel centre offers advice on commuting options and gives users from the region and beyond the chance to share ideas for journeys.
Other amenities include bike parking, lockers, changing rooms, bike hire and repair services, a café, retail units, staff and office facilities, and space for let on the first floor. The hub’s civic space hosts community events with the potential to help regenerate the area.
Thanks to the project, the people of Derry/Londonderry and visitors have access to transport facilities that are comfortable, fit for purpose and able to handle the anticipated growth in passenger numbers.
Beneficiaries
‘The refurbished Hub is a user-focused facility that provides welcoming spaces for all, regardless of age or ability. Creating jobs locally through extended opening hours and third-party tenant lettings, the Hub is widely regarded as a beacon for the people of the Waterside area of the City.’
John Glass, Translink spokesperson
‘The Hub has had a transformative impact on our region, changing our cityscape, modernising our experience of rail and linking to our expanding greenway network. It has improved connectivity, sustainable travel and our environment, giving an impressive city image to arriving visitors and instilling pride in locals who use it for work and leisure travel.’
Karen Phillips, Derry City and Strabane District Council spokesperson
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “North-West Multimodal Transport Hub” is EUR 32 862 570 with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 19 996 874 through the “Interreg V-A – United Kingdom-Ireland (Ireland-Northern Ireland-Scotland)” Cooperation Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Sustainable transport”.