With work nearing completion, local representatives from North Antrim have this week gone on site to view the upgrade work at Ballymena rail station as part of the wider upgrade programme across the Derry line.

The work that is being carried out at all stations and halts on the NI Railways network is part of a £17 million investment package designed to deliver a better rail service.

Ballymena station has benefited from a range of enhancements including, new signage, shelters, lighting, seating, re-surfacing, a refurbished booking office and toilet facilities.

The final works to be completed at the station are two new lifts which will be operational by the end of October, delivering enhanced accessibility for disabled passengers and improve the environment and journey experience for all passengers.

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Councillor Maurice Mills, Mayor of Ballymena Borough Council and Mervyn Storey MLA, viewed the site works in progress at Ballymena station, and were briefed on the developments.

Northern Route Manager, Frank Moore said: "Passengers using the Londonderry line continue to grow thanks to increased frequency and more comfortable journeys and the Park and Ride facility also continues to prove popular.

"We are now pleased to be upgrading the facilities to make them more accessible for everyone.

"We would like to thank the Mayor and local representatives for taking this opportunity to visit Ballymena station to see the improvements being made, as the project reaches the final stages."

The Mayor of Ballymena, Councillor Maurice Mills, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the improvements and upgrades to Ballymena Station.

"It is great to see the investment in these facilities and I am sure this will make a great difference to everyone in the local community and encouraging them to use public transport."

(PR)