AQW 5841/22-27

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 08/02/2024
Answered On Date: 21/02/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether his Department plans to reinstate the Knockmore line as part of the rail network.

Answer:

The All-Island Strategic Rail Review (AISRR), is considering how the rail network on the island of Ireland can improve sustainable connectivity between major cities, enhance regional accessibility, support balanced regional development and contribute to decarbonisation.

Enhancing the integration of rail with other transport modes is one of 13 objectives within the Review. In support of this objective, the Review recommends reinstating the railway between Lisburn and Antrim to enable Belfast International Airport to be connected to the railway network.

Following closure of the AISRR public consultation in September 2023, work is ongoing to finalise the Review and its recommendations. Once the Review is published, further work will be required to prioritise the recommendations and then to undertake feasibility studies and develop business cases to support future investment decisions.

I can confirm that Translink have received funding through the Union Connectivity Review to undertake a feasibility study for the re-opening of the line between Lisburn and Antrim and the study has now commenced. It will consider both the potential passenger demand and operational model for the line.