Knockmore railway line

Motion Text

That this House recognises the strategic importance of the Knockmore railway line as a vital component of a modern, integrated transport network for South Antrim constituency and wider Northern Ireland; notes that the line is a key component of the proposed Belfast Circle Line, which aims to create a continuous rail loop around Greater Belfast; further notes that the reopening of this line would provide essential rail connectivity to Belfast International Airport, which is currently a striking anomaly as one of the few major international airports in the United Kingdom without a direct rail connection; welcomes the findings of the 2025 feasibility study confirming the project is both viable and in high demand, with the potential to generate one million passenger journeys annually; expresses concern at the Department for Infrastructure’s suggested delivery window of 2030 to 2040, which would see this essential infrastructure delayed for up to 14 years; and calls on the Government to support the acceleration of this project by providing necessary capital funding and prioritising the Knockmore Line and the associated Ballymartin rail halt as early-delivery projects to support regional economic growth, reduce road congestion and meet environmental sustainability targets.