Strategy (ATS) for Northern Ireland 4 which is “about building in accessibility for older people and people with disabilities in all programmes of work.” 2.4 In 2003, Regulations were introduced in Northern Ireland to set accessibility standards for buses and coaches, although Translink had been purchasing accessible vehicles for several years prior to this.The Government is continually striving to modernize Translink’s bus fleet by investing in new state-of-the-art buses providing easy access for mobility-impaired passengers. 2.5 The RTS provides patronage targets and compliance with this Design Guide will contribute to this realisation.As one of the most readily visible parts of the bus operation, improving bus stops provides an ideal opportunity to show commitment to improving the entire service. 4 An Accessible Transport Strategy for Northern Ireland, Department for Regional Development,April 2005 5 Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations (NI) 2003, HMSO, 30 April 2003 8
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