New Mayo bus service connecting Ballina to Castlebar to be launched

TFI Local Link Mayo is launching a new bus service from Ballina to Castlebar from Monday, October 30

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 454 will operate three daily return services Monday to Sunday from Ballina to Castlebar.

The route will continue to connect villages and areas such as Ballina, Ardagh Cross, Crossmolina, Lahardane, Bofeenaun, Massbrook House, Pontoon, Caurane, Parke, Turlough and Castlebar.

The route will also provide improved peak-time and evening services seven days a week for commuters, as well as improved connectivity to the National Museum of Ireland, regional bus services in Ballina and regional bus and rail services in Castlebar.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Sarah Togher, TFI Local Link Mayo general manager said: “We are delighted to launch the Connecting Ireland 454 route and are very conscious of the need to connect people and places in rural Mayo.

"For the first time rural communities on this route will have a frequent bus service that will provide access to essential amenities, employment, education, recreational opportunities and regular onward connections seven days a week.

“In addition to the increased services to the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough, the 454 route provides access to the many areas of historical interest such as the Titanic Memorial Park, Nephin, Lough Conn, The River Moy and the natural beauty on the Wild Atlantic Way.

“This high frequency service fits with the Local Link goals to provide accessible, integrated and sustainable transport that can provide a viable public transport alternative to car journeys.”