To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when the last review of the relocation of, or additional, halts on current railway lines was carried out.

A recent review of the railway network in 2021 did not indicate a requirement for any additional new halts on the existing rail network in the short/medium term. Translink is however progressing with developing a business case for a new halt at Lisburn West (Knockmore) which was identified in a previous study. Translink is currently undertaking a feasibility study for potential additional railway halts in the North West. This will consider the demand forecast and implications for the wider network operations and timetable. It is hoped to conclude this initial study by end of the summer 2022.

With the Climate Act now in place the importance of an accessible rail network comes into new focus and I believe that will include the need for new rail links across the island with new rail halts to ensure as many people as possible can easily access a rail network that meets their everyday work and leisure needs.