Belfast Grand Central Station – a state-of-the-art integrated transport hub for trains, coaches and buses – will open its doors this autumn.
The impressive building is there for all to see. Less visible is the work being done behind the scenes over the summer.
This includes extensive track works to connect the rail line to the new station, connecting Belfast Grand Central Station to the network and a new communications centre at Lanyon Place alongside, safety testing and training to get everything ready to open to passengers.
Chris Conway, Translink’s Chief Executive, said: “Simultaneously, while infrastructure and technology work is completing, more than 300 rail staff from drivers to conductors, signallers and station staff are undergoing training to operate new systems and signalling technology.
“This latest drone footage really does a great job in showing what is happening behind the scenes at one of the most complex infrastructure projects in the UK this year. We are on track for operational opening this autumn and while that is an exciting next step in our journey, public realm street works will continue into 2025.”
To date 6 kilometres of new track has been laid, 19 switch and crossing points, 8 buffer stops, 2,000 new sleepers and some 33 tonnes of new ballast.
A new road has also been laid along the tracks to facilitate work on the 26 new bus stands – 10 more than is currently available at Europa Buscentre.
Work is also underway to embed a new upgraded state of the art intelligent signalling system with the highest industry standards in safety and performance – part of Translink’s continued improvement programme to modernise and enhance the network.
Chris added: “As you can see from the video, the Belfast Grand Central team are exceptionally busy this summer on a wide range of significant projects from completing the engineering works and construction to the building as well as street works to facilitate access to the new transport hub. The team is also tasked with ensuring all the safety testing and staff training is completed to keep operational opening on track for the autumn.
“We really want to thank passengers, the local community and public at large for their patience as we complete these essential works and look forward to welcoming them to Belfast Grand Central Station which, beyond transport, will ensure Northern Ireland is Better Connected today and for future generations.”
