Derry celebrates inaugural World Public Transport Day

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, was joined by Linda Thompson, Customer Services Co-ordinator, Translink at the North West Transport Hub on Friday, April 17, to celebrate the first-ever World Public Transport Day.

The global initiative highlights the essential role of sustainable travel in connecting communities, reducing urban congestion, and lowering carbon emissions.

The event served as a showcase for Derry’s position as a pioneer in green infrastructure, being one of the first cities on the island of Ireland to operate a fully zero-emission urban bus fleet.

The initiative encourages more people to consider leaving the car at home and use public transport for their everyday journeys, helping to reduce congestion, lower emissions and support more sustainable lifestyles.

Since its launch in September 2023, Translink’s zero emission Foyle Metro service has already facilitated more than three million passenger journeys across the city, covering over 1.3 million emissions-free miles and removing in excess of 2,000 tonnes of CO₂.

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Mayor McHugh commented: “This new initiative shines a light on the vital role public transport plays in our daily lives; connecting our communities, cutting congestion, and helping our city move greener.

“If you can, leave the car at home and take public transport on the day. Let’s celebrate the journeys that bring us together!”

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce also marked the day by emphasising the direct link between transport innovation and the region's economic future. As businesses across the North West continue to scale and attract new talent, the Chamber argues that well-connected infrastructure is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for regional growth.

Anna Doherty, Derry Chamber Chief Executive, states: “World Public Transport Day provides an important opportunity to recognise the importance of enhancing connectivity across the North West. Continued investment in public transport is essential to supporting economic growth, improving accessibility and delivering on the full potential of transformative projects such as the Magee expansion.”

The Chamber also drew attention to the Better on Board Charter, launched in 2024. This initiative brings together a powerful coalition of businesses, institutions, and civic leaders committed to reducing congestion, improving air quality, and encouraging a coordinated approach to sustainable regional travel.