Post by wirewiper on Apr 2, 2023 17:06:48 GMT
CityBus began in Belfast on 2nd April 1973, taking over the staff, vehciles and depots of the former Belfast Corporation Transport. Although trading as Translink Metro since 2006, CityBus Ltd. remains its legal name.
The early years were difficult, at the height of the Troubles. Drivers often faced adverse situations and sadly some lost their lives whilst on duty. Buses were frequently hijacked and set on fire to act as roadblocks, or vandalised in other ways. During the mid-1970s AEC Merlins and Swifts, which had been withdrawn prematurely from London service, were transferred into Belfast to keep services going. Since those dark days though, CityBus has evolved with new routes, vehicles, ticketing and technology, reflecting Belfast's emergence as a vibrant, modern city.
The early years were difficult, at the height of the Troubles. Drivers often faced adverse situations and sadly some lost their lives whilst on duty. Buses were frequently hijacked and set on fire to act as roadblocks, or vandalised in other ways. During the mid-1970s AEC Merlins and Swifts, which had been withdrawn prematurely from London service, were transferred into Belfast to keep services going. Since those dark days though, CityBus has evolved with new routes, vehicles, ticketing and technology, reflecting Belfast's emergence as a vibrant, modern city.