Stormont debate hears of ‘high speed’ rail link

A NEW ‘high speed’ railway link through Tyrone is among the key recommendations for the future, a debate on plans for the re-instatement of rail has been told.

Infrastructure Minister, John O’Dowd, told the Stormont debate that that it is planned for the rail network from Portadown to Derry – which is expected to pass through Omagh and Strabane – to have a speed of 200km per hour.

Mr O’Dowd said that, as a result, it would be a ‘high speed’ connection.

“I am keen that we are ambitious around our rail network, and that we maximise the potential of rail to support social and economic development and the environmental sustainability of our transport system,” he said.

“It offers an opportunity to deliver real and lasting change for people, communities and our island economy through faster speeds, greatly improved frequency, new routes, particularly in the west and north, and widened accessibility and connectivity across the island,” the Minister added.

‘TRANSFORMATION’

West Tyrone MLA, Daniel McCrossan, said there was a potential transformation awaiting the people of the area.

“When Strabane and Omagh are seamlessly linked to Donegal, Derry, Fermanagh and the rest of the island, through a reliable rail system that connectivity will ot only enhance the quality of life but unlock new opportunities for economic development and cultural change,” he said.

“It makes sense on so many levels. By improving rail connectivity in the west and across this island, we are making a commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future for all our citizens.

The SDLP brought the motion on the All-Island rail network calling for the Assembly to recognise the transformative impact that an enhanced rail system would have on local communities.

Next year, 2025, will mark the 60th anniversary of the removal of the rail network through all of Tyrone.