§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
What was the reason for the present closure of the NIR line from Coleraine to Londonderry; when the line will be open again; what steps are being taken to ensure that the reopening is permanent; and what measures will be taken to encourage passengers back. [HL5983]
§ Lord Williams of Mostyn:Translink has advised that the Coleraine to Londonderry line was closed to permit essential engineering works to take place to the cliff-face at Downhill, scene of the recent derailment, that normal scheduled services recommenced on Monday 21 October and that it has no plans for further closures of the line. Translink has pointed out however that all cliff-faces require regular inspections that from time to time generate essential engineering maintenance works, which may require line closures. Translink has been operating promotional fares on the Londonderry line to stimulate passenger demand and has also publicised the re-opening through the media.