North to South Belfast Glider: Infrastructure Minister gives update on proposed new routes

Glider passes Custom House Square in Belfast

An update has been issued regarding the progress of extending Glider services into North and South Belfast.

In July 2021, it was announced that Translink Glider services would extend into North and South Belfast. Currently, the service runs from East to West Belfast, with a link to the Titanic Quarter.

Each Glider service operates with an eco-hybrid fleet, described as a ‘tram on wheels’, that aims to make city centre travel more convenient and hassle-free. The service first began operating in September 2018.

The timeline for new Glider services marks September 2027 as a proposed launch date for the North to South Belfast service.

South Belfast MLA Kate Nicholl tabled a question to Infrastructure Minister, John O’Dowd, asking for an update on plans to extend Glider services to North and South Belfast.

In a response, the minister said “work is almost complete” to determine the feasibility of extending the services further, with the route going into Glengormley in the north and Carryduff in the south.

Minister O’Dowd said: “I announced the preferred route for BRT2 in October 2022, along the Antrim Road in the north and along the Ormeau Road and Saintfield Road in the south. I decided that the north and south routes should extend to Glengormley and Carryduff, respectively with the feasibility of these extensions being further assessed as part of the detailed design.

“The announcement also noted the G2 City Centre to Titanic Quarter Glider service will be extended to connect with Queen’s University and the City Hospital.

“In line with this decision, work is almost complete to determine the feasibility of extensions to Glengormley and Carryduff, to conclude the Outline Business Case, and recommendations on the way forward.”

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