New Mayo local link route sees rapid growth

The newly launched Route 454, part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, has seen impressive growth, reaching over 1,200 monthly passenger journeys by June 2024.

This success highlights the increasing demand for reliable public transport in rural areas.

Operating three daily return services from Ballina to Castlebar, Route 454 serves a range of villages including Ardagh Cross, Crossmolina, Lahardane, Pontoon, Turlough and more.

It significantly improves peak-time and evening services, enhancing connectivity for commuters and providing access to essential amenities, employment and education.

For tourists, Route 454 offers convenient access to attractions such as the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough, the Titanic Memorial Park, Nephin, Lough Conn, the River Moy, and the scenic Wild Atlantic Way.

This route aligns with the goals of TFI Local Link to provide sustainable and integrated transport options.

Notably, it is the first electric vehicle service on the Local Link Mayo network, operated by Corduff Travel.

The route has been growing in popularity since its inception in October 2023.

Route 454 came into being with little fanfare; the fact there were so many firsts with it being an all-electric fleet meant there were reservations about its reliability and potential.

But the figures don't lie as a marked jump month on month proves the people of Mayo are increasingly encouraged to adopt regular public transportation from rural areas into Mayo's two largest towns.

Additionally, Route 978 from Belmullet to Castlebar, which runs three times daily, records over 3,800 monthly passenger journeys. This success story demonstrates that with reliable and frequent public transport, rural communities can reduce car dependency, benefiting both individuals and the environment.

For more information on these services, visit the Transport for Ireland website.