Ni railways £17 million station enhancement programme completed on time and on budget

NI Railways has successfully completed a major £17 million rail station investment programme to upgrade rail stations and halts across the network on time and on budget.

The station enhancement project, which began in April 2007, included a wide range of facility and service improvements along both the Bangor – Portadown and Larne – Londonderry railway lines. Work included the installation of new shelters, lighting, seating and signage as well as platform resurfacing and additional refurbishment work including new ticket counters. A number of stations were also installed with ramps, lifts and accessible toilet facilities in compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

Translink General Manager for Rail Services, Mal McGreevy said:

“The completion of this major upgrade programme demonstrates our commitment to provide a better and more attractive rail service for all our passengers. This work will improve overall journey experiences and help deliver a more accessible and inclusive public transport system as well as provide an improved working environment for our staff. In particular, passengers with mobility difficulties and those with small children will also benefit from the provision of accessible toilets, lifts and ramps at key locations.

“Since 2002, NI Railways’ passenger numbers have grown by over 40% and we are confident that by offering accessible, modern stations and facilities it will help persuade even more passengers to use our services. I would like to thank all our customers and local representatives for their patience and support throughout this major NI Railways project and I am confident that the improvements we have made across the network will be welcomed by all public transport users.”

Michael Lorimer from IMTAC said: "IMTAC welcomes the improvements made at stations and halts. We believe the changes made will mean that disabled people and older people will find it easier when travelling by train here."

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