Swann Presses Infrastructure Minister Over Rail Study Release

Robin Swann MP has welcomed a response from Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA to his recent open letter calling for clarity and committed progress on the reopening of the Antrim-Lisburn (Knockmore) Railway Line. More than 1,200 residents and supporters added their names to Mr Swann’s letter, underscoring the strength of local feeling behind the project.

Mr Swann said:

“The Minister has now replied to the open letter which was submitted on behalf of over 1,200 local residents. This level of public support shows how important the Knockmore Line is to communities across South Antrim and beyond.

“The Minister’s indication that the main outcomes of the feasibility study will be published ‘in the coming weeks’ is an improvement on the previous position of ‘in the coming months.' However, it still falls short of providing a clear timeline for publication.”

The South Antrim MP added:

“I will continue to press for the full publication of this feasibility study before the end of this year. The public need to be able to see the full report, not just selected findings or a summary, so that communities in Antrim, Aldergrove, Crumlin, Glenavy, Lisburn and the wider area can understand the potential next steps for this rail link.

“We need the detail and certainty about when decisions will be taken, and what the likely direction of travel will be.”