TRANSLINK is inviting the public to tell them how they use local Ulsterbus services - to help plan network changes to be introduced later this year.

A number of local bus routes are under review already.

The consultation will seek to identify what is most important to customers to help Translink best design the bus network to operate within allocated resources while protecting those routes most essential to customers.

The public are invited to provide feedback on the services they use by completing a questionnaire available at local bus stations and public amenities as well as on the Translink website at www.translink.co.uk/servicechanges.

Public information events will also take place where passengers can meet local Translink representatives to discuss proposals:

• Bangor Bus & Rail Centre, March 23 March, 10am – 2pm

• Newtownards Bus Station, March 24, 10am – 2pm

Ciaran Rogan, Translink marketing executive said, “The information we get from passengers will be very important to us. We want to continue to offer accessible and good value services where customers need them while ensuring we remain efficient and sustainable for the future.

“Over recent years, more and more people are choosing to travel by bus and train. We have remained focused on reducing costs, enhancing value for money and providing improvements and enhancements to continue to make Translink services attractive.

“In addition to reviewing our network to address the current funding challenges, we are also looking at efficiency savings through reductions in manpower, reorganising facilities, reductions in areas of general administrative expenditure and we also recently increased our fares.

“We would very much urge our passengers to participate in this process and contribute to shaping the future of our local bus services,” said Ciaran.

Deadline for responses to this consultation exercise is April 3.

• For further information click www.translink.co.uk/service changes or call the Translink contact centre on 028 90666630.