Lord Hendy, Chair of Network Rail visits Belfast Grand Central Station

Lord Peter Hendy, Chair of Network Rail and previously Commissioner for Transport for London, visited Translink yesterday, (April 29^th) to view the development of the new world class Belfast Grand Central Station.  It was also an opportunity to discuss the transport projects progressing as part of the Union Connectivity Review.

Lord Hendy, supporting the UK Government, led the Union Connectivity Review in 2021 which explored ways in which transport could better connect the UK. He has a wealth of public transport experience and as Chair of Network Rail he plays a prominent role in progressing rail reform, driving modernisation of the network to tackle climate change, improve performance, invest in infrastructure and make the railways even greener.

During his visit, Lord Hendy was given a tour of the construction site at Belfast Grand Central Station where work continues at pace.  It was an opportunity to highlight the significant economic, social and environmental benefits it will have for Northern Ireland alongside the transition to modal shift and Translink’s Climate Action Plan to transition to net zero.

Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, Chair of Network Rail and author of the Union Connectivity Review, said:

“I was hugely impressed by the vision for and scale of Belfast Grand Central Station when I was shown round by Chris Conway and his team. Not only will it be a huge boost for integrated public transport in Northern Ireland, but it will significantly regenerate that whole area of Belfast. 

“I am also delighted to hear how much progress has been made with longer term planning for a decarbonised public transport network by the Translink team as a result of the UK Government funding unlocked by my Union Connectivity Review. 

“Having ready to go costed plans for electrification to the border, and for reopening of the railways will form a strong part of the All Island Rail Strategy.

“Better connectivity always delivers on growth, jobs, housing and social cohesion, and I am delighted to have played my part in unlocking the future transport vision for Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland.”

Lord Davies, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, said:

“I am delighted to hear about the progress made by Translink at Belfast Grand Central station, which will improve transport connectivity for the people of Northern Ireland. 

“The UK Government is committed to improving transport connectivity across the UK as demonstrated in our response to Lord Hendy’s Union Connectivity Review. This is why we have provided £4.8 million to Translink to study options for improving rail links in Northern Ireland, including to electrify the railway line between Belfast and the border, reopening the Antrim to Lisburn and reinstating the Portadown to Armagh rail lines.”

Chris Conway, Chief Executive of Translink, said:

“We welcomed this opportunity to showcase our ambitious plans to transform transport in NI. Set to be the largest modern integrated transport hub in Ireland, Belfast Grand Central Station will improve connectivity across Northern Ireland and beyond. Together with wider plans to further enhance the network, decarbonise and enrich the overall customer experience, we aim to encourage more sustainable travel for a healthier and greener region.

“The Union Connectivity Review Report has been instrumental in supporting Translink’s strategic network development planning and engagement with the All Island Strategic Rail Review.  We are already progressing plans for electrification of the railway from Belfast to the Border and the feasibility of reopening rail lines to make rail travel more accessible”.

“We would extend out thanks to Lord Hendy for his support of our plans and vision to create a better-connected future for all” Chris concluded.