OPTIONS for extending the Glider bus route in north Belfast have divided political opinion.
The main unionist parties advocate a route up Shore Road while the SDLP, Alliance and Greens prefer Antrim Road.
A consultation began last month on route options as part of plans to extend the Glider beyond its existing routes in east and west Belfast.
The estimated cost could be more than £100 million and work will not be completed at least until 2027.
Three route options to north Belfast from the city centre have been outlined in the consultation, two of which are focus on Shore Road and one that is based around Antrim Road.
SDLP councillor Carl Whyte told the BBC he favours the Antrim Road option as it is a main arterial route, while his Alliance counterpart Nuala McAllister said she could see the merits in both routes but "would be pushing more for the Antrim Road personally".
DUP councillor Brian Kingston believes the Shore Road is the best route and points to "many important stops along the way", including the new Ulster University campus, Cityside shopping centre, Yorkgate train station and Crusaders football ground Seaview.
Green Party councillor Mal O'Hara said the choice should be based on evidence.
Sinn Féin said it was considering the issue and would make a formal submission in due course.
The proposed route for the south of the city goes from City Hall along Great Victoria Street before making its way to Ormeau Road, Saintfield Road and Cairnshill park and ride.
A short loop to provide better access to Queen's University and Belfast City Hospital is also being proposed.
A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: "Phase two of the Belfast Rapid Transit project (BRT2) is one of several infrastructure, tourism and regeneration projects being considered as part of the Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD).
"BRCD partners are currently considering which projects will be prioritised within the final deal.
"The current estimated cost to deliver BRT2 is £142m to 148m, however this is expected to reduce significantly upon confirmation of a preferred route and system characteristics.
"The earliest estimated 'go live' date is September 2027, based on the experience of delivering the first phase of BRT."
Glider buses are 18m long, have room for 105 passengers and use diesel-electric hybrid engine technology.
