Work has been completed on two platforms at the Bellarena Train Station in Co L'Derry.

This is part of the second phase of the £46.4million project which is being primarily funded by the Northern Ireland Executive with EU funding support.

The scheme includes the construction of a rail passing loop along with installation of a new signalling and telecoms system.

Translink Group Chief Executive, Chris Conway, said: "These new longer platforms mean we can accommodate six-car trains and meet the demands of further local rail customer growth.

"Their opening marks the completion of the first stage of this Phase 2 project which also included: a platform extension at Castlerock; construction of a new rail passing loop; closure of a User Worked Crossing and construction of a new farm access lane at Bellarena plus installation of ducts at both Castlerock and Derry~Londonderry station.

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"We also continue to make steady progress on the installation of a new signalling and telecoms system along the railway line to ensure it operates as effectively and efficiently as possible in the future and plan to substantially complete all Phase 2 works by late 2016."

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Ó hOisín said: "The Derry Belfast railway line is an important piece of infrastructure if we are to make the North West competitive in economic terms and this is why Sinn Féin, when we held the Department of Regional Development, lifted the moratorium on improvements on the line.

"It is now crucial that the upgrade of the rest of the line continues apace so that the railway can become a viable alternative for the many commuters that travel each day from Derry to Belfast."

(CD/JP)