Guided by its 2030 corporate strategy, Better.Connected, Translink aims to transform public transport into a force for social inclusion, climate action, and regional development. The redevelopment of York Street Station in North Belfast exemplifies this vision—turning a dated transport hub into a vibrant, inclusive civic space through deep community collaboration.

What Translink did

York Street Station was redeveloped in response to the social and economic challenges facing North Belfast—one of the UK’s most deprived areas, with high rates of mental health issues, antisocial behaviour, and neurodiversity. Translink’s leadership committed to creating a station that would not only improve mobility but also deliver meaningful community impact.

The project was co-created with over 3,000 people, including local schools, youth groups, artists, and accessibility advocates. It featured:

• Inclusive design: Step-free access, quiet spaces, and user-friendly layouts to support neurodiverse and disabled users.
• Creative collaboration: Public art installations, murals, poetry, and green spaces developed with local artists, students, and community groups.
• Youth engagement: Workshops, site visits, and career talks to inspire future pathways in transport, construction, and the arts.
• Environmental enhancements: Energy-efficient systems, wildflower gardens, green walls, and expanded cycle infrastructure to promote active travel and wellbeing.

The station’s transformation was guided by Translink’s senior leadership and supported by partners including Ulster University, Golden Thread Gallery, Seedhead Arts, IMTAC, and Carrick Connect. The project was tracked through feedback sessions, reports, and continuous community input to ensure accountability and impact.

Key Impacts and Outcomes

• 75% reduction in antisocial behaviour around the station.
• 94% of participants felt their input shaped the final outcome.
• Over 3,000 people aged 7–95 contributed to the station’s design and identity.
• Inclusive participation from schools, youth groups, older people, refugees, and neurodiverse communities.
• Creative workshops fostered civic pride and cross-community connection.
• 36 creative professionals commissioned, supporting the local arts economy.
• Schoolchildren gained skills in design, teamwork, and communication.
• Project integrated into school curricula as a live case study in regeneration.
• York Street Station is now a benchmark for arts-led, responsible regeneration.
• Approach being replicated across Translink’s network and studied internationally.
• Influencing policy and practice in public infrastructure and placemaking.

What the judges said:

The judges recognised the extent of collaboration with and impact on the community. Collaboration is extensive and ongoing and Translink continues to engage with a wide range of stakeholders. Translink was able to demonstrate measurable impact and the judges were impressed with its methodology of engagement and in sharing best practice with others. Translink’s representatives were able to demonstrate significant positive impact to both the company and society.