Translink zero emission accessibility bus initiative for Foyle Pride

Pictured above at Waterside Railway Station, Derry to promote the availability of a Translink Accessibility bus for Saturday's Annual Foyle Pride Parade are, front from left, Mel Bradley, Foyle Pride, Tony McDaid, Assistant Manager, Translink and Anita Villa, Foyle Pride. At back are Translink drivers Malcolm Crawford and Ronan Ward.

Translink has teamed up with the organisers of Foyle Pride 2023 to provide an accessibility bus for this year’s parade, with bookings now open for anyone who would like to reserve a place onboard.

Featuring one of the new buses from the Foyle Metro zero emission fleet, this initiative aims to assist attendees facing challenges related to mobility, mental health, or sensory issues, as well as families with young children, ensuring that everyone can participate in the exciting occasion.

Alan Young, Translink Service Delivery Manager, said: "The Foyle Pride parade draws large crowds to the city in a vibrant celebration of equality and diversity, so we're immensely proud to extend our support to this event.

“With initiatives like the mobility bus, we're helping to ensure the parade is open and accessible, keeping everyone better connected. It's also highlighting an important climate action message and we look forward to welcoming passengers onboard as they enjoy a day of celebration and unity."

Mel Bradley, Foyle Pride Treasurer, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have the support of Translink and this fantastic new fully electric bus, to transport any of those in our community with mobility issues who need that support on the day of the Foyle Pride Parade.

“This year is our 30th anniversary and we have been trying to make this year’s festival as accessible as we possibly can.

“This brilliant electric bus means that not only can we give this support, but we can have those members of our community up front and celebrating along with us for the whole journey.

Promoting the availability of a Translink Accessibility bus for Saturday's Annual Foyle Pride Parade are, from left, Mel Bradley, Foyle Pride, Tony McDaid, Assistant Manager, Translink and Anita Villa, Foyle Pride.

“And with an emissions-free vehicle, we are able to do this with a significantly reduced environmental impact. Our theme this year is 'Grassroots' and we wanted to be able to do the work, from the ground up, and get the support where it is most needed.

“This means so much to us and we're very thankful for this wonderful gift to our community.”

The parade will take place on Saturday, 26th August, setting off from the North West Transport Hub at 2.00pm.

To register to use the accessibility bus, interested attendees should contact pride@translink.co.uk.