Robinson welcomes ‘tidy up’ of Portrush Railway Station

Mr Robinson had asked the Minister for Regional Development what provision is being made to prepare the rail station in Portrush for the anticipated visitor numbers for the Irish Open this summer.

DRD Minister, Danny Kennedy replied: “In recognition of the importance to Northern Ireland of this major event and in response to local demands, Translink has established an in-house working group to oversee the organisation’s plans to support the Irish Open at Portrush.

“Members of the group will include staff who have had considerable experience in providing transportation for recent, successful major events. Translink will be reviewing its bus and train services in order to cater for the large number of people expected to be attending the event.

“As part of its preparations for this prestigious event, Translink is considering how facilities at Portrush Station might be improved. As well as carrying out a general tidy-up, power washing and repainting exercise, Translink is planning to refurbish the existing platform canopy and a capital project is already in hand”.

Mr Robinson commented: “This news can only be welcomed as the dilapidated state of the station has been brought to my attention on a number of occasions.

“I appreciate that there is a larger town centre plan under consideration, but I had to address the station’s run down condition state with such a prestigious Golfing event coming to the area.

“It is essential that our visitors see the very best Northern Ireland has to offer.