To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on any additional bus services to be provided on the route from Belfast City Centre to Cairnshill, given the delay to the Belfast Rapid Transport Phase 2 project.

This issue is an operational matter for Translink. I have sought the requested information and have been advised as follows:

Translink operates a network of services to connect communities and optimise journey options to best meet the overall demand, within its existing resource levels and a challenging funding position.

Recognising the growth of communities, Translink would welcome opportunities to further align its bus services with emerging demand to aid modal shift and to increase the numbers of customers choosing public transport. However, as Translink continue to provide the network within a very challenging financial context there are no immediate plans to provide additional services on the Cairnshill route.

At present Translink provide the following combined service level from Cairnshill (via service 652) and Carryduff (via services 520 and 515):

Translink will continue to monitor and review its existing service provision to Cairnshill and identify and implement timetable adjustments to improve the existing service where funding and resource constraints permit.