Essential engineering works set to start | Signalling and Level Crossings Renewals in Cullybackey

Translink has announced that essential engineering works will soon commence as part of the Cullybackey Area Signalling and Level Crossings Renewals Project. The full project works are expected to last until early 2023.

A webinar on this project is taking place on 16 September at 6pm. You can register now at the following link: Register Now

The Cullybackey Area Signalling and Level Crossings Renewals Project involves significant upgrades and associated civil engineering works on the track and the platform of Cullybackey Train Station and the surrounding area.

It represents a major capital investment by the Department for Infrastructure and is essential to maintain high safety standards and operational performance for users of the railway.

The project involves the below works:

• Cullybackey Level Crossings: The upgrading of the three Level Crossings at Cullybackey, which are coming to the end of their operational life after 30 years of service and therefore require renewal. The crossing equipment will also be renewed with updated technology which will enhance safety standards.

• Extension Works at Cullybackey Train Station: A platform extension at Cullybackey Train Station. This will enable longer trains with six car sets to stop at the platform, offering more space and more capacity for local passengers. There will also be improvements to the pedestrian access at the entrance of the station.

• Killagan (2 miles north of Cullybackey) to Ballymena Cable Ducting: Around 5.5 miles of new cabling needs to be upgraded in the project area. This will enable technology enhancements to be maximised, driving improved signalling efficiencies and reducing the levels of maintenance required in the future.

Project Benefits:

• Enhancing the network to attract more people to choose ‘greener’ travel

• Protecting Northern Ireland’s rail infrastructure for future generations

• Enhanced network performance

• Reduced maintenance levels for the future

• Longer platforms for 6-car walkthrough trains - more space and capacity for passengers

Indicative Project Timeline:

We have carefully considered the best timing to deliver this important project in order to minimise the overall impact for passengers and local residents. The below indicative schedule has been agreed but please note this has the potential to change.

• October 2021: Compound work preparation

• November 2021 - June 2022: Cable route works (night works)

• December 2021 - May 2022: Platform extension at Cullybackey Train Station

• June 2022 - November 2022: Level crossings upgrades & signalling infrastructure works

• December 2022 - February 2023: Testing, finishing and commissioning works (10-day line closure)

Impact of Works:

During the works, engineering trains will be operating along the line. We will be working hard with our contractors to minimise any noise or impact on the local residents living in the surrounding area.

• Level Crossings - Local road closures will be required from time to time to facilitate the renewal of the level crossings. Alternative routes will be in place as agreed with DfI Roads and signposted in advance.

• Platform Extension - The platform extension works will be carried out at night with noise attenuation measures and prior notification to properties in the vicinity.

• Cable Ducting - Ducting works will be carried out at night with noise alleviation measures and prior notification to properties in the vicinity.

Commissioning and testing will require a 10-day line closure in late 2022/early 2023 with a temporary timetable with bus substitution services in operation. Passengers with valid rail tickets will also be able to travel on designated scheduled Ulsterbus services.

Public Consultation:

Translink has stated they will keep the local community updated as this project progresses, letting you know more about construction methods, timescales and exactly when they will be working.

“We are grateful for your support for our efforts to deliver a better rail service for everyone, helping make public transport first choice for travel, for today and for tomorrow.”