To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, following the review of the scoping study commissioned by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, to detail a timeline for a feasibility study for the Portadown to Armagh rail project.

My priority as Minister is to work on transport infrastructure that improves people’s lives, connects communities and tackles the climate emergency through prioritising active and sustainable transport options. I believe that rail has huge untapped potential to deliver multiple benefits across our island.

A Feasibility Study for the Portadown to Armagh rail project would be a follow-on to the scoping study commissioned by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. Recognising how this project can fit with my priorities I have committed to providing funding in partnership with the Council for the Feasibility Study. The intention is that Council will procure and manage the development of their Feasibility Study. There will be further engagement on this between my officials and council officers in December.