To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the reopening of the Knockmore railway line.

My Department is working in close partnership with Translink to advance plans for the reopening of the Antrim to Knockmore railway line, a project with the potential to deliver significant benefits for communities, businesses and the wider economy.

The first phase of development work, together with the key findings of the study, was published in December 2025 through the Shaping the Future document. https://www.translink.co.uk/about-translink/media/pressreleases/shaping-the-future

To maintain momentum, I allocated £1 million in the 2025/26 financial year and as a result of the additional Shared Island Funding I have been able to ring fence a further £5 million this year to progress All Island Rail Review priority projects.

This funding will enable further detailed technical work, including proposals for a connection to Belfast International Airport, engagement with planning authorities, development of signalling and electrification options, and assessment of user-worked crossings along the route.

Enhancing connectivity to Belfast International Airport is a key priority that will support economic growth, improve sustainable transport options, and help deliver the ambitions set out in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review.

While future phases of the project will require the necessary funding, approvals and statutory consents, the work currently underway reflects a strong commitment to progressing this important opportunity and ensuring the project is well positioned for future development.