Temporary closure of Derry line for rail upgrade works

Rail bosses said the major engineering project to complete the re-signalling works and a passing loop on the Coleraine to Derry rail line “continues to progress well against schedule”.

In order to carry out the main phase of testing and commissioning, Translink is advising passengers that the line will be closed from 9.30pm on Wednesday 2 November, and will re-open at 5.30am on Monday 21 November.

In addition to this, the line between Antrim and Coleraine will be closed to services between 23.30pm on November 2 and 5.30am on November 7, while the line between Coleraine and Portrush will be closed between 11.30pm on November 2nd and 5.30pm on November 14.

Bus substitution services will operate during these closure periods.

In order to complete the works, Translink have agreed some public road closures with Department for Infrastructure Roads Service, between 10pm on 2 November until 5.30pm on Monday 21 November. All diversion routes will be signposted in advance of the work commencing.

As part of preparation works for this line closure, contractors will be on site to remove the existing passing loop at Castlerock on November 1 and 2.

This will result in some minor timetable alterations to services between Coleraine and Derry.

Clive Bradberry, Infrastructure Executive at Translink said: “Following the weekend closures during August and September, we are now entering the main phase of testing and commissioning, when we will see a closure between Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry in November.

“We remain committed to developing this line for the North West region and have planned this closure in conjunction with local stakeholders and community to avoid key events including the Halloween Festival taking place in Derry~Londonderry at the end of October.

“Bus substitution services will be operating during this extended closure period and passengers will also be able to travel with valid rail tickets on local scheduled bus services. We would like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding as we carry out these works.”

For information on this closure and other travel updates, click on www.translink.co.uk, download our journey planner app, follow us on @Translink_NI or call the Contact Centre on 028 90666630.