Four local schools have completed Translink’s ‘Healthy Choices Schools Travel Challenge’, achieving a reduction of almost 100 private weekly car journeys in the local area.

As part of a Translink initiative year eight pupils from St Genevieve’s, St Louise’s, Coláiste Feirste and De La Salle College were tasked with reducing the number of car journeys along the main arterial routes to schools and opt instead for healthier and more environmentally-friendly forms of travel.

Through the challenge total weekly private car journeys fell by 97 with pupils from St Genevieve’s winning the overall prize of free bus travel after achieving the largest reduction (20%). Travelling by bus was the most popular alternative form of travel and overall weekly bus journeys increased by 108.   

Phillip Woods, Metro Service Delivery Manager at Translink’s Falls Road depot commented:“Through the challenge pupils have considered their own travel options and the impact this has upon the environment and traffic congestion in the local area.  Using more sustainable forms of transport, such as our local bus services, benefits both society and the individual.“It is well recognised that travelling on the bus to school each day should be nurtured in our communities. The experience provides children with independence, develops social skills, promotes exercise and provides a safe and cost effective mode of transport - using a smartlink card offers great savings for parents.  In addition, it also means reduced traffic congestion at peak times around the school gates. 

Translink hosted a special reception to recognise and reward the pupils’ efforts at the Kennedy Centre, who provided monthly spot prizes for pupils throughout the course of the challenge.

“A reduction of almost 100 car journeys a week makes a great deal of difference to the local area. I’d like to congratulate all the pupils, teachers and parents for achieving such great results and thank them for taking up our challenge.  I would also like to thank the Kennedy Centre for their generous support,” concluded Phillip. 

ENDS