To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in light of increased housing in the area, whether consideration has been given to reopening the railway halt at Craigavad.

I am committed to improving transport connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across the North. Our rail network, whilst relatively small, does present a unique opportunity to improve the sustainability of the Department’s transport operations. Investment decisions need to include network optimisation, in terms of operational and financial viability, and the wider role of rail in assisting the growth of the Belfast Metropolitan Area.

In line with that, my Department is currently developing proposals for a new Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan which will help inform priorities for future development of the main road and rail networks, as well as the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan, which will look at transport links across the Belfast Metropolitan Area, including North Down.

When published, these draft Plans will give the public an opportunity to respond, and share their view on the proposals being brought forward. I would welcome any local feedback on the desire for a feasibility study into the re-opening of the railway halt at Craigavad through this process.