New £3.8m 214 space park-and-ride at Bellarena rail halt authorised

Claire Sugden MLA has welcomed the approval of £3.8 million to deliver a new 214-space park and ride facility at Bellarena Rail Halt, describing it as a long-awaited and important investment in public transport infrastructure for East Derry and the wider north west.

“This is something I have been pushing for over a number of years, so I am really pleased to see this project finally given the go-ahead. Bellarena is a key rail halt on the Londonderry–Coleraine line, but the lack of adequate parking has been a real barrier for people who want to use the train," she said.

“I regularly hear from constituents who would like to leave the car at Bellarena and travel on by rail, but simply haven’t been able to because of limited parking. This new 214-space facility will make a genuine difference for commuters, students and families right across this part of East Londonderry.

“For a rural area like ours, park and ride facilities are not a luxury they are essential. Improving access to rail services helps people get to work and education, supports our local economy, and gives people a more realistic alternative to driving longer distances.

“I’ve consistently raised the need for better transport infrastructure in this area, and I’m glad that Department for Infrastructure and Translink have recognised the importance of this site and backed it with investment.

“This project has been a long time coming, and I know many people locally will welcome this news. I’ll continue to engage as the scheme moves forward to make sure it is delivered without unnecessary delay and meets the needs of those who rely on it.”