MLAs debate Belfast airport rail link plan ahead of autumn decision

Stormont officials are currently considering the findings of a feasibility study

Transport officials are considering a feasibility study on reopening a closed railway line between Antrim and Lisburn via Belfast International Airport and hope to publish the main outcomes this autumn, Stormont’s Infrastructure Minister has said.

Liz Kimmins was speaking during an Adjournment Debate in the Assembly this week on the reinstatement of the Knockmore rail line and connecting to Belfast International Airport.

Since it closed in 2003, there has been long-standing support for reinstating the Knockmore rail line, which would reconnect Crumlin, Glenavy and Ballinderry and extend the service to Belfast International Airport.

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Campaigners say the move could also have a significant beneficial impact on accessibility and in increased public transport options in places such as Templepatrick and Ballyclare and other towns and villages throughout the area.

Pressure is mounting following news this week that a proposed new extension plan for Belfast City Airport could make it the first airport on the island of Ireland to be connected by rail.

Translink is looking at potentially reconnecting the Knockmore route with a possible airport connection. As well as considering engineering requirements, demand forecasting and cost estimates, the study considered reopening the three stations previously in operation on this line.

In addition, three locations for a new station at Belfast International Airport are also being appraised to identify the preferred option.

Officials within the Department for Infrastructure are now considering the feasibility report and expected to publish the outcome on this review by late September.

This week’s debate was brought by Alliance MLA John Blair who believes that doing this would enhance access to jobs, schools, vital services, and assist tourism, throughout his South Antrim constituency and beyond.

Speaking at Stormont, he said: “Conversations that I have had with constituents, local businesses and organisations such as Antrim Chamber of Commerce have echoed one message: connectivity is not a luxury; it is a necessity. A reliable rail service is invaluable for commuters, families, young people seeking opportunity and older citizens wanting to stay connected.

“Beyond the everyday advantages, reinstating the Knockmore line and extending it to Belfast International Airport would unlock enormous potential. Improved access would benefit domestic and international tourists, stimulate sustainable economic growth and help meet commitments on decarbonisation and balanced regional development.”

Mr Blair said progress, however, has been slow and, frankly, frustrating: “It has been over two years since Translink committed to a feasibility study. We recently learned that that report is complete and with the Department for Infrastructure.

“That is an important milestone, but it is just one step on a long path. While I acknowledge the Department’s deliberation, I urge it to give us clarity and a path forward as soon as possible. Our communities need a timeline, a budget and, most important, a commitment to develop this essential project.”

Ms Kimmins told MLAs: “We are considering the feasibility study for the reopening of the Knockmore line. We hope to publish the main outcomes of the study in the autumn, so I will be able to provide Members with further updates then. I continue to look forward to working with everyone on this.

“I recognise the significant importance of the Knockmore line not just to the people who represent the area but for wider connectivity across our island to ensure that all our regions are well served by a fully functioning rail network.

“That would achieve everything that we have set out to do, be that meeting our climate change targets, supporting our communities or achieving economic growth.”

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