£10m Belfast Train Station Moves Forward

Plans are moving forward for a new £10 million train station at York Street, Belfast, with the facility expected to open in 2023.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon visited the site of the existing station to announce the multi-million pound investment project, which will see a sustainable transport hub delivered to boost greener and healthier travel in the area.

"I am committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure that will transform communities, improve lives and help tackle the climate crisis," Minister Mallon said. "Key to that commitment is ensuring we have a functioning and thriving public transport network and that is why I want to invest in our infrastructure and our rail infrastructure in particular, which will deliver for local people and visitors now and well into the future.

"Last year I launched a public consultation on proposals to redevelop this new train station at York Street. Following the completion of the consultation process, and the subsequent receipt of planning approval, I am delighted to confirm that this £10million project can move toward construction phase. 

"Our public transport network is vital in our recovery from Covid-19 both economically and socially. Pre-covid the current facility was one of the busiest train stations in Northern Ireland. With the move of Ulster University to this part of Belfast, it is expected this will grow further with improved facilities, including better links to walking and cycling options in the area, making it even easier for people to choose sustainable travel as their smarter travel mode."

Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive added: "This is really good news for the city. It will provide better connectivity for everyone particularly with the opening of the new Ulster University campus this year and the planned City Quays development.  

"Passengers will enjoy modern, more accessible amenities including a new Changing Places facility and better links to walking and cycling options with more access to cycle parking and local cycle networks. A new footbridge will link to wider platforms and new canopies.

"The external design will boast an enhanced station layout with high quality landscaping and provision of a public realm area at the front of the station."

Planning permission has already been secured for the project, with construction work expected to begin later this year.