East Antrim Ulster Unionist Party represenative Roy Beggs MLA has questioned the Infrastructure Minister on her plans to redevelop the station at Greenisland.
UUP MLA Roy Beggs tabled a written question to ask ” the Minister for Infrastructure what plans are in place to redevelop Greenisland train station, as outlined in the Greenisland Regeneration Plan.
Mr Beggs added “Greenisland is a busy commuter station and any redevelopment would see an increase in usage at the site and the Larne Line. This would have positive consequences for our environment. In addition, any redevelopment of the station which was outlined in the area masterplan last decade, could aim to try and reduce the anti-social activity in the area.”
In reply, Minister Mallon stated: “I recognise the potential of redeveloping train stations and what this could provide to an area such as Greenisland. As you will be aware, my priority as Minister is to work on transport infrastructure that improves people’s lives, connects communities and tackles the climate emergency through prioritising active and sustainable transport options. I believe that rail has huge untapped potential to deliver multiple benefits across our island. In advance of Final Budgets being determined for 2021-22, I will be assessing the pressures and commitments facing my Department, reflecting my priorities, the commitments in “New Decade: New Approach” against the available budget. At this stage, it is not possible to commit to delivering a redevelopment of the Greenisland train station.”
Roy Beggs MLA concluded, “It is disappointing that the Minister can not commit to the redevelopment of the station but I will endeavour to continue to press for this scheme.”
