Railway reopening recommendation is welcomed

SOUTH Antrim MP Robin Swann has welcomed the publication of key findings relating to the re-opening of the Antrim–Lisburn rail line, while raising serious concerns about the lack of coordination, the timing of the publication and the proposed delivery timeframe.

“I welcome the publication of these key findings, which make it clear that the Antrim–Lisburn line can and should be built.” he said.

“This is a project that would future-proof our railways, strengthen public transport and significantly improve connectivity. It is an investment in Northern Ireland.”

However, Mr Swann said it was concerning that the findings were published just two days after the Department released the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy and at the start of the NI Assembly Christmas recess.

“Given the importance of coordinating the development of this vital and much-needed rail link, I had hoped the Infrastructure Minister would have taken a more coordinated approach.” he said.

“Publishing this at the beginning of the Assembly recess has left no opportunity for MLAs to question or scrutinise it until the new year. I have already engaged with my Assembly colleagues to ensure this issue is brought before the Assembly when it returns.”

He added: “The demand modelling indicates that reopening the line could generate up to one million additional passenger journeys per year. That underlines the strategic importance of this link for commuters, the local economy and regional connectivity.”

“In today’s prices, the capital cost is estimated at around £300 million for a non-electrified option, rising to over £500 million with full electrification. These figures include risk allowances, new stations and the procurement of additional rolling stock. I expect that more detailed cost estimates will be developed as the project progresses, including opportunities to phase delivery.”

The South Antrim MP added: “Funding allocated by the Department for Infrastructure through to the end of 2025/26 has already enabled priority work to progress including further design and assessment of the Belfast International Airport connection, engagement with planning authorities, signalling and electrification development, and assessment of user-worked crossings along the route. This is very encouraging, and I hope only the beginning.”

“Taking all of this into account, it becomes increasingly difficult to see where a 5–10-year timeline comes from in the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy assessment. From a funding and feasibility perspective, the Infrastructure Minister should now be concentrating on proposals that fall clearly within her jurisdiction and are already well advanced.

“A 5–10-year timeframe demonstrates a clear lack of ambition from the Department for Infrastructure. The rail line already exists. Work on the business case should begin without further delay.”

He concluded: “What has been published so far are only the ‘key insights’. This Feasibility Study was funded by a £1 million investment from the UK Department for Transport, and the full report should be published so its findings can properly inform the business case.”

“The Minister should consider funding allocation in stages, reopen the line with rolling stock to follow , and she should be brave. I firmly believe in this instance ‘build it and they will come’.

“This has been a key political priority for me since I was elected, and I will continue to push for the reopening of the Knockmore line. I will also continue to engage with the Department of Transport in Westminster, who has been instrumental in developing this assessment. The case for action is strong, and the focus must now be on delivery rather than delay.”

Meanwhile, Mr Swann has received an update from the Infrastructure Minister on the proposed Templepatrick/Ballymartin Rail Halt.

He said: “The All-Island Strategic Rail Review specifically references Ballymartin as a location where a new rail halt should be explored, and the proposal is included within Translink’s wider planning. The idea of integrating a halt with the existing Bus Park and Ride makes clear sense and reflects what many local people have been calling for.

“That said, local residents want to see more than acknowledgement in a strategy document. The projected timescale of 2030 to 2040, alongside a feasibility study that will not conclude until summer 2026, shows there is still a long way to go. It is important that this proposal does not lose momentum or slip down the list of priorities.

“A rail halt at Ballymartin could make a real difference by improving connectivity, easing traffic pressure and supporting local growth across South Antrim. I will continue to make the case for this project and keep constituents updated as matters progress.”

South Antrim MLA John Blair has also welcomed the publication today of the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy 2025.

He said: “For many years I have been advocating on behalf of communities in Antrim, Crumlin, Glenavy, and beyond for improved public transport links and the reopening of the Knockmore railway line - a project that would not only reconnect local towns to the wider rail network but also support better access to Belfast International Airport, enhance regional economic growth, and provide more sustainable transport options for commuters and families alike,” he said.

“The inclusion of this project in the prioritisation strategy is an important step forward. It sends a clear message that investment in rural and regional rail infrastructure matters, that connectivity is not a luxury but a necessity, and that expanding our rail network is integral to tackling congestion, supporting jobs, and meeting our climate commitments.

“While there is still work ahead and timelines are a little longer than we would like, I will continue to press for meaningful progress at pace so that residents see tangible benefits as soon as possible.”