Unveiling the Vision for Belfast International Airport's Rail Link to City Center

Campaigner's Vision

Plans to re-open an old rail line that could see Belfast International Airport linked to Belfast by train must be part of a more ambitious expansion of the public transport network, a rail campaigner says. Aaron Vennard of the Circle Line campaign has warned that the newly opened Grand Central Station is in danger of becoming a “white elephant” if there is not a “serious expansion of our rail network”. Aaron has been campaigning for the reopening of the Knockmore Line between Antrim and Lisburn as well as train track going north from Belfast to create a ‘Circle Line’ around the city.

Strategic Expansion

He says that “for the most part, the infrastructure is in place but additional stations will be required in key locations”. His website adds: “Such a system should make train journeys the logical choice when traveling to and from Belfast, removing cars and traffic from the city and ultimately reducing emissions.” A map he has drawn up of the proposed route shows stops at sites around Belfast including Yorkgate, Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Quarter, Victoria Park, and Belfast City Airport.

Feasibility Study

Earlier this month, Translink said work is progressing on a feasibility study exploring the possibility of reopening the line. Aaron emphasized the necessity for a more ambitious approach, stating: “If we aren’t building the additional infrastructure needed to run more services - and reach more people - then what was the point of building Grand Central Station? Without a serious expansion of our rail network, there’s a real risk it becomes a white elephant - an expensive showpiece, rather than a functioning hub for regional connectivity.”