DUP MLA Paula Bradley and Councillor Phillip Brett have welcomed the extension of the Newtownabbey Town Service bus to pass through Glenvarna estate.

TRANSLINK is to extend the Newtownabbey Town Service bus route to include the Glenvarna estate in Glengormley.

The news follows meetings held by Paula Bradley MLA and party colleagues with Translink managers at which she pressed for this change to be made.

Ms Bradley welcomed the news, saying: “I am absolutely delighted to have received written confirmation from Translink that the Newtownabbey Town Service 367 will be extended into Glenvarna.

“This amendment will commence in September 2014 and will operate from the Ballyclare Road, along Glenvarna Drive, and back out onto the Ballyhenry Road.

“Glenvarna is a settled area with a large elderly population, many of whom rely on public transport.

“I know that some residents have difficulty in walking to either the Ballyclare Road or Ballyhenry Road, and I have no doubt that this new route, with the bus stopping within the estate, will be of great benefit to them. I hope that it will also increase usage of the Town Service bus.

This issue was raised with us by local residents and I want to thank Translink for responding so positively to our approach on behalf of these residents.