New Waterside‘link station’ less disadvantagesthan other options

The Sentinel recently reported how a ‘Waterside link’ station had been added to the list of possible options for Londonderry rail users although Translink admitted it didn’t have the money to build it.

Other options are for a new railway station near the Peace Bridge and for the refurbishment of the current or former Waterside stations.

At Lisnagelvin Sports Complex between 9pm and 5pm on Thursday and Saturday rail users will be given more details of the option, including the new proposal.

According to Translink literature, the new ‘link station’ will be “elevated above platforms and canopies.” There will also be a “slip road off the Waterside Link with landscaping, bus stops and car drop-off at station entrance.” A new park and ride facility would be accessible via Duke Street Roundabout. The proposal has several advantages, according to Translink.

These are “very good visual and pedestrian link to Peace Bridge; a contemporary iconic sense of arrival into the new city terminus; second closest to new Peace Bride (of all options); very prominent riverside location; car/bus drop off points adjacent to station; existing station remains operational during works; improved parking provision; good visual connection from building to drop off area; potential opportunities for commercial tenants.”

However, Translink don’t own the entire site; ground levels limit parking close to the station; and there would have to be separate access to the Park and Ride from the main entrance. Despite this the ‘Link Station’ has less disadvantages than any of the other options.

People have until May 24 to say which option they prefer.