§ The Earl of Mar and Kellieasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will ensure that the railway line between Lisburn and Antrim will be maintained after the withdrawal of passenger services so that it 84WA will be available for a possible circular service in the future. [HL2756]
§ Lord Williams of Mostyn:When regular passenger services are withdrawn from the railway line between Lisburn and Antrim at the end of June 2003, the line will be maintained to a standard that will enable trains to use it as a diversionary route in emergency circumstances, albeit under strict safety rules and speed restrictions. This arrangement will be reviewed one year on from the cessation of scheduled passenger services to ascertain actual usage of the line for diversionary purposes. The review will consider the full range of options for the future usage of the line at this stage.
Further to my answer of 25 February 2003 (Official Report, col. WA 24) I can confirm that the Belfast Circle Line remains a longer-term possibility.