The £6.4 million refurbishment of Central Station in Belfast underlines the Department for Regional Development’s commitment to provide Northern Ireland with a modern and sustainable transportation system, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Angela Smith, has said.

The Minister was speaking as she opened the new-look upgraded station, which includes improved access to the station and platforms for all passengers, including people with disabilities, and improved customer facilities and increased car parking spaces.

The Minister said: “Central Station is the start and end point of the Enterprise Cross Border service, Translink’s flagship service, and it is fitting that the refurbishment ensures its image matches its importance to the rail network.

“Approximately 25,000 commuters per week use the 1,400 trains that stop or start at Central Station each week and I am delighted that they now have the facilities they deserve.

“Rail services in Northern Ireland are on the brink of an exciting new era with the first of 23 new trains due to arrive at the end of this year with a view to coming into service during 2004.

“With continued Government investment in the railways, along with funding assistance from the European Union, all existing railway users should benefit from improved services and I expect that they will be joined by many more people on the trains in the months and years to come.”

The Minister said that the area in and around Central Station had benefited greatly: “The refurbishment work means that Central Station can stand proudly among the many new buildings in this area.

“Looking around the station today I get a feel for a vibrant, modern and perfectly practical facility. The refurbishment and upgrade of the station placed great emphasis in maximising the opportunity for natural light. The improved signage and the use of colour contrasts in materials on hand rails, pillars and walls greatly enhances the accessibility, especially for people with disabilities. These are particularly appropriate in this the European Year of People with Disabilities.”

The total project outlay is expected to be £6.38m. EU funding of £2.9m was secured from the Transportation Sub-Programme 1994-1999 and to date the Department for Regional Development has provided grant aid amounting to £1.3m.

(MB)