Translink is already counting the cost of damage to the new Glider service just nine months after it was introduced.
New figures obtained by Belfast Live show that Translink has dealt with over 300 attacks on Glider vehicles and linked equipment or infrastructure since it was brought in at the beginning of September last year.
Thousands has been spent repairing ticket machines and Glider vehicles, in what one councillor has branded “incredibly disappointing”.
A Freedom of Information response to Belfast Live showed that in less than 300 days there have been:
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25 attacks on Glider vehicles
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54 attacks on ticket vending machines
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49 attacks on platform validators
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9 attacks on Glider halts
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173 attacks on the shelter network
The cost of repairing vehicles totalled £6,441.95, while ticket machines and platform validators came in at £7,234.50. Translink said that costs of repairing the Shelter network is covered under contract with Clear Channel and is “commercially sensitive”.
A spokesman said: “Vandalism and antisocial behaviour like this inconveniences customers and increases service operating costs.
“It is very disappointing and is detrimental to the service we provide, with the local community ultimately suffering.
“We have CCTV systems on board our Glider vehicles and at halts and we work closely with the PSNI, community and elected representatives to reduce and prevent acts of vandalism and anti-social behaviour so we can maintain the high calibre of service our customers deserve.
“We operate a cash reward scheme offering up to £1,000 to any member of the public who witnesses any incident of vandalism against our vehicles or property and is prepared to give evidence in court, resulting in a conviction.”
SDLP Councillor Seamas de Faoite described the attacks as “mindless”.
He told Belfast Live: “It’s incredibly disappointing that our public infrastructure has been subject to mindless vandalism and violence.
“This type of behaviour shouldn’t be allowed to overshadow or detract from the benefit, to our environment and public health, of increased investment in public transport.
“Belfast, and in particular South Belfast, desperately needs more public and sustainable transport options as we battle to end our addiction to cars.”
Alliance Party encouraged members of the public to report any vandalism.
He said: “It’s naturally disappointing that people are damaging the vehicles and equipment which help us navigate our city.
“Glider is an improvement to our public transport network and I would encourage anyone to report vandalism on the network.”
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