§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what funding the railway line between Larne and Whitehead will receive from the Regional Transport Strategy 2002–12; and what funding will be available for upgrading this stretch of line in the future. [82682]
§ Angela SmithThe Regional Transportation Strategy (RTS) for Northern Ireland 2002–2012 identifies a range of strategic transportation investment priorities including funding of just over £500 million in railways over the next 10 years. It does not specify amounts to be invested in individual railway lines. Commitments to proceed with any major capital scheme will be subject to the normal Budgetary process, economic appraisal and the consideration of any statutory procedures. Furthermore, decisions on the retention of rail services north of Whitehead; and north and north-west of Ballymena, will also be subject to successful results from the introduction of new trains and improved infrastructure on the rest of the network early in the implementation of the Strategy.