Swann Secures Confirmation on Rail Line Recommendations

Robin Swann the South Antrim MP has received confirmation from the Minister for Infrastructure that the feasibility study for the Knockmore (Antrim – Airport – Lisburn) Line has been submitted to the Department and a response is expected later in the Autumn.

Mr Swann said:

“Greater rail connectivity across Northern Ireland is well overdue and I am pleased that the long-awaited feasibility study has now been completed. Connecting Antrim and Lisburn via rail, and the rest of the rail network to our International Airport, will be invaluable for commuters, tourism and increased usage of public transport.

“The Minister has informed me that officials with Department for Infrastructure are now considering this report and will publish the outcome on this review later in the Autumn. I am concerned, however, that the Minister has also said that she has not yet taken decisions on the Department’s 2025-26 budget outcome and that this may require some difficult decisions and that ‘bearing down on costs will be essential to protect essential public services.’

“The Infrastructure Minister has ruled out the wider Belfast Circle Line saying in her letter to me ‘the Department is not actively considering the Belfast Circle Line which was not identified in the AISRR.’

“In Westminster I highlighted directly to the Secretary of State for Transport the importance of this critical piece of investment.”

In his question to the Transport Secretary, Mr Swann asked:

“The Northern Ireland Minister for Infrastructure informed me this morning that her Department is working with the Department for Transport and the European Investment Bank on the recommendations in the all-island strategic rail review… Can the Secretary of State provide any further update on what support the Government can provide or what engagement she has had with the Department of Infrastructure in Northern Ireland or the European Investment Bank on what will be a critical piece of investment in my constituency of South Antrim?”

The Transport Secretary responded:

“Although I have not personally had any direct engagement, it may be that the Rail Minister or my officials have, and so I would be happy to write back to the hon. Gentleman to update him on any collaboration that is taking place in this respect.”