£12.5 million upgrade means faster journeys for rail travellers

EUROPEAN Commision representatives visited Ballymoney Railway Station last week, to view the track upgrade work on the Londonderry line, between Coleraine and Ballymena.

By The Newsroom

Published 11th Feb 2010, 14:26 BST

Updated 15th Feb 2010, 16:27 BST

The 12.5 million project, completed last summer, was co-financed by the European Union (TEN-T).

Eugene O’Brien, Translink Infrastructure Engineer said, “We are delighted to have the opportunity to show the European Agency the results of this successful project, which was delivered on time and on budget.

“An extensive range of engineering activities were carried out including a five mile track relay and signalling upgrade; excavation work; new drainage; rail welding and new bridge deck installation and waterproofing.

“The project has meant that our customers are now enjoying more comfortable, smoother, quieter and faster train journeys.

“It has also ensured the maintenance of high safety standards”, said Mr O’Brien.

More work is planned on the line, but further investment is required to complete the upgrade, which could see an hourly timetable on the Londonderry line.