22.03.13
Translink NI reopens Derry-Coleraine line
The line between Derry-Londonderry and Coleraine is officially open today. Translink has reopened the line ahead of schedule following almost eight months of closure for track safety and engineering works.
It marks the completion of the first phase of the £330m Renewals Project.
Translink Group chief executive, Catherine Mason, said: “This project will secure the long term future and sustainability of the Northern corridor rail link which provides vital connections to jobs, colleges, universities, shops, businesses and local attractions.
“Its revival will help strengthen the economic landscape in the North West and will also mean that the train is an attractive way to reach the UK City of Culture to join the celebrations planned for the months ahead. Translink is proud to be the official transport partner of the City of Culture.
“The popularity of rail travel in Northern Ireland continues to grow, with over 80% growth in passenger numbers in the last 10 years and we are on target to exceed a record-breaking 11 million journeys this year.
“Investment in trains and service developments has delivered a step change in punctuality and reliability performance as well as ensuring customer satisfaction remains at a very high level.
“Looking ahead, we are focused on giving our customers attractive, reliable and good value services to keep them coming back onto Londonderry Railway Line services. We have launched a ‘Try the Train’ campaign to help grow passenger numbers by encouraging those who live along the line to use it.”
A new north west time table will commence on Sunday March 24.
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