Larne Harbour rail station closes for improvements

for the duratuon of the scheme, which started on Saturday, trains will operate to Larne Town only. Now that new Class 4000 trains are operating on the Larne railway line, this work is essential to accommodate longer trains. Lengthened platforms will also require extensive track work including new drainage, ballast excavation, new rail and ballast and signalling upgrade work to accommodate changes to crossing points.

During the closure, an earl- morning bus-substitution service will operate Monday–Friday at 5.40am from Larne Harbour to Whitehead. On October 5, the last train from Belfast Central to Larne Harbour will also be replaced with a bus substitution. Larne Town station will also require some track adjustments and work is underway to replace jointed track with continuously welded rail along a five-mile section.

Larne Line Rroute manager, Frank More, said: “Platform extensions have already taken place at many stations along the Larne railway line and we now plan to carry-out this essential work at Larne Harbour and Larne Town to accommodate longer trains and ensure passenger comfort and safety.

“Our new Class 4000 trains have already started to deliver a step-change in service reliability and improved accessibility along the Larne line. We also recently introduced free WiFi onboard NI Railways services giving our passengers the added benefit of browsing the internet or catching up on work while they travel with us.

“This project will ensure the continued modernisation of the transport infrastructure and will help contribute to increasing rail passenger numbers. We would ask for the continued support of local representatives and our customers as we work hard to deliver attractive rail services for everyone,” Frank concluded.

For further information on temporary timetable arrangements during the closure period click www.translink.co.uk or call 90 66 66 30.