After months of persistent community activism, Ballymacaw residents are celebrating the launch of a new Local Link bus service that promises to improve rural transport in the area.

The announcement comes after local frustration last year when the village was excluded from the Local Link route connecting nearby Dunmore East. In response, hundreds of residents attended public meetings and campaigned for equal access to public transport.

The campaign drew the support of Waterford City and County Council, which played a role in backing the community’s push for better services. The newly introduced Local Link route now ensures Ballymacaw residents can enjoy improved connectivity to nearby towns and services, reducing rural isolation and providing new opportunities for social and economic participation.

What Is Local Link?

Local Link is a nationwide public transport service in Ireland, managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA). It operates primarily in rural and peripheral regions, offering reliable, affordable, and accessible bus services to areas that are not well served by other public transport providers.

Key features of Local Link:

  • Rural Transport Programme: Local Link forms part of the Rural Transport Programme (RTP), aimed at tackling rural isolation and improving access to services such as healthcare, education, retail, and employment.

  • Flexible and Scheduled Services: Services include regular scheduled bus routes and more flexible demand-responsive transport, especially useful in very rural areas.

  • Community-Focused: Many services are developed in consultation with local communities, tailoring routes and times to meet specific needs.

  • Subsidised and Accessible: Local Link services are subsidised by the government and often accept the Free Travel Pass. Vehicles are typically wheelchair accessible.

  • Operated by Local Offices: There are 15 Local Link offices across the country, which plan and manage services at a regional level, ensuring services are responsive to local needs.

The route will be officially launched tonight at the Carbally Community Centre from 7:00 p:m.

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