Bellewstown teen leads campaign for local bus service

A 13-year-old Bellewstown student has sparked a community campaign calling for a public bus service to the village, saying young people are being left isolated and unable to take part in everyday activities due to the complete lack of transport links.

James Black, a first-year student at St Mary’s Secondary School in Drogheda, launched the petition after realising that his friends in neighbouring towns could travel freely while he and others in Bellewstown were “stuck at home” unless a parent was available to drive.

“Ever since I started St Mary’s, I’ve made new friends in loads of places like Laytown, Bettystown, Duleek and Drogheda,” James said. “They can see each other whenever they want and go wherever they want, but for me and other young people around Bellewstown we have to depend on others. My parents, like all the other parents, work, and we have brothers and sisters who want to do things as well. It’s hard to get the time.”

In his petition, James argues that the absence of a public bus is cutting young people off from sports clubs, school activities, cultural events and even something as basic as going to a shop. The nearest amenities are several kilometres away, leaving children and teens entirely dependent on lifts.

“The main problem with transport in Bellewstown is the lack of it,” he said. “We have a school bus to get to school but that’s it, and it makes the opportunities for us much less. People living in Drogheda have transport links everywhere and we have none — it’s just not good enough. It affects everyone in the community from young to old.”

James initially contacted local independent councillor Amanda Smith, encouraging his friends to email her too. “I made a template and got my friends to send it to her,” he explained. “She gave us the idea to start the petition.”

Since then, support has grown quickly. As of this week, the petition has more than 270 signatures, with residents saying Bellewstown has been overlooked for transport investment for far too long.

James believes a bus service even a limited one would make a huge difference. “I’d love to see a daily bus that comes once or twice a day. I’d love to see a weekend bus, and a bus during the summer holidays,” he said.

He says the response from the community has been “amazing”, adding: “My school has been so supportive. I never thought it would get so much reaction but I’m not done yet. I want to get more people to sign the petition.”

James is also grateful for the engagement he has received from public representatives. “I’ve had great cooperation from people like Cllr Amanda Smith and TD Darren O’Rourke,” he said.

In his petition, James writes that a bus service would give young people independence, reduce pressure on parents and benefit older residents and those who do not drive. He also notes that better transport links help reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

“A public bus service would provide more than convenience; it would present opportunities,” he said. “It would enable us to engage in activities that aid our development, broaden our horizons and foster independence.”

Now, he hopes decision-makers will take notice. “I just hope the NTA see this and they see the demand for a bus in Bellewstown and they take action and make it happen.”

The petition remains open for signatures here, and James is encouraging all residents to support the campaign to make Bellewstown better connected.