Minister intervenes on timetable for Derry trains

Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy has intervened with Translink on the new revised train timetables for the Derry line.

His intervention has led to new proposals which will lead to improvements for rail users and ensure a train will arrive in Derry by 9.00am.

The Minister said: “I am disappointed that Translink did not consult with me, the Department, local representatives or the Consumer Council on their recently announced timetable revisions.

“I directed Translink to urgently review their options and the company is now in a position to announce further changes to the timetable which will come into operation shortly. This will mean the first train into Derry will actually get in earlier than the original timetable, by 9.00am, and commuters from Derry, Coleraine and Ballymena will have a reduced journey time of 10 to 15 minutes.

“I am committed to rail users in the North West and this will also provide tangible benefits to rail commuters travelling from Derry through Coleraine onto Belfast.

“Investments in infrastructure such as the recently completed £12million investment on the Ballymena to Colerine track, and plans to invest £75million in track works between Coleraine and Derry, due to begin in 2011, are having a major impact on passenger numbers. I am determined to build on this and to provide the basis for a first class railway service for the people of the North West.”

Notes to editors:

1. Media queries to the Department for Regional Development Press Office, Tel 028 90 540817. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.