CTA welcomes £1 million investment in community transport in Northern Ireland

By Frances Campbell, Director for Northern Ireland

Community Transport Week begins with welcome news for Northern Ireland: Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced £1 million in capital funding to help community transport providers replace ageing vehicles.

The investment will enable each of the 13 providers to purchase a new minibus, replacing 13 of the 27 vehicles identified as the highest priority based on their age, mileage and condition.

At CTA, we welcome this investment and the recognition it gives to the essential role community transport plays in people’s lives.

Investing in journeys that matter

For many passengers, community transport makes everyday life possible. It means being able to attend a hospital appointment, reach education or employment, do the shopping, or spend time with family and friends.

Where other transport options are unavailable or inaccessible, these services help people maintain their independence and stay connected to their communities.

Reliable vehicles are essential to delivering that support. Replacing ageing minibuses is a practical investment in the services passengers depend on and the organisations working hard to meet their needs.

The Minister’s announcement recognises that connection between dependable transport and people’s quality of life. As she said:

“People must be at the heart of everything we do.”

Recognising the people behind every journey

This year’s Community Transport Week theme, Driving Communities Forward, celebrates the people who make these journeys possible.

It is the driver who knows their passengers by name, the volunteer who offers a helping hand, and the staff member who takes time to understand what someone needs to travel safely and comfortably.

Their care makes a difference far beyond the journey itself. A familiar face and a warm welcome can help someone feel confident about leaving the house, attending an appointment or trying something new.

This funding is a welcome step towards renewing the sector’s fleet. With further priority vehicles still needing replacement, continued investment will remain important in supporting these vital services.

Throughout Community Transport Week, we are celebrating community transport across Northern Ireland and the drivers, volunteers and staff who keep people connected.

To everyone delivering these services: thank you. Your work is driving our communities forward.

Read the Department for Infrastructure’s announcement.

This week is Community Transport Week (12th-16th October), find out how you can celebrate with us: https://ctauk.org/ctweek26-how-get-involved