Through its Better.Connected strategy, Translink aims to use transport as a catalyst for social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and regional development. The redevelopment of York Street Station in North Belfast exemplifies this vision—transforming a neglected space into a vibrant, inclusive hub that reflects and uplifts the local community.

Summary of Actions Taken

Translink’s redevelopment of York Street Station was designed as a community-first regeneration project, addressing deep-rooted social challenges in North Belfast—one of the UK’s most disadvantaged areas. The initiative focused on accessibility, inclusion, and creativity, engaging over 3,000 people from ages 7 to 95.

Key actions included:

• Arts-led engagement: Collaborated with schools, artists, and residents to co-create public art installations, including murals, sculptures, and poetry displays
• Inclusive design: Ensured accessibility features were central to the station’s design, informed by community feedback and neurodiversity research
• Community partnerships: Worked with schools, youth clubs, boxing gyms, and older people’s groups to deliver workshops, site visits, and creative programming
• Employment and skills development: Delivered apprenticeships, paid trainee roles, and curriculum-linked resources to support long-term employability
• Environmental enhancements: Introduced wildflower gardens, green walls, and cycle infrastructure to promote active travel and wellbeing
• Employee involvement: Over 1,000 staff hours contributed to mentoring, volunteering, and community events

This was not symbolic consultation—it was genuine co-creation, with community voice embedded throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Impacts and Outcomes

• 75% reduction in antisocial behaviour around the station and underpass
• 94% of surveyed participants felt they had genuinely influenced the project
• Over 3,000 people engaged, including schoolchildren, parents, and older residents
• Cross-community programming fostered inclusion and civic pride
• Curriculum-linked resources distributed across North Belfast schools
• 10 apprenticeships delivered
• 364 weeks of paid trainee employment
• 35 weeks of school work placements
• 2,400 students engaged through careers events and workshops
• 36 paid roles for artists, poets, and facilitators
• Green infrastructure supports biodiversity and mental wellbeing
• Design aligns with WHO guidance on suicide prevention and public health
• Project model adopted for future Translink infrastructure schemes
• Recognised by Network Rail, Irish Rail, and Transport for London as best practice

What the judges said:

“Translink demonstrated a range of clear community and society benefits, going above and beyond its aspirations to deliver lasting impact at both an individual and societal level. Its exemplary entry blew the judges away.”