Swann Calls for Transparency as Knockmore Line Report Remains Under Wraps

Robin Swann MP has called on Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA to clarify when the long-awaited feasibility study on reopening the Antrim–Lisburn railway line (Knockmore Line) will finally be published.

Mr Swann has campaigned since being elected Member of Parliament for the restoration of the line, which would connect Antrim, Crumlin, Glenavy and Belfast International Airport directly to Lisburn and the wider Northern Ireland Railways network.

The Department for Infrastructure previously advised Mr Swann that the feasibility study would be ready for summer 2025. Minister Kimmins later stated she would make her assessment of the report known in the autumn. With November now drawing to a close, no publication date has been announced.

The UK Department for Transport has confirmed to Mr Seann that it has already received a copy of the feasibility study from Translink.

Mr Swann said:

“The fact that the Department for Transport in Westminster has received the feasibility study shows that the work is finished and has been circulated. There is now no justification for any continued delay in publishing the findings for the public, key stakeholders or elected representatives.

“The Minister first said the report would be ready in summer 2025, then she would give her view in the autumn. We are now at the end of November and, beyond this vague seasonal timeline, we still have no further clarity. What is the Minister waiting for?”

Mr Swann added:

“The reopening of the Knockmore Line presents a major economic opportunity for Antrim, Crumlin, Glenavy, Lisburn and the wider region - particularly by providing rail access to Belfast International Airport.”

Mr Swann has written to the Infrastructure Minister seeking a firm publication date and a clear explanation for the ongoing delay.