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. 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.
Above: Hear directly from some of the people such as Lisa McFadden, Senior Project Manager, (pictured) who are bringing this project to fruition.
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.”
Above: New drone footage shows magnitude of rail track works.
Belfast Grand Central Station marks a significant step forward in Northern Ireland's public transport system. Ten times larger than current facilities and largest on the island of Ireland it will be able to cater for up to 20 million customer journeys annually.
While work is being completed, enhanced bus timetables are being introduced to keep passengers moving including enhanced park and ride services and bus substitutions for when the rail line closes between Belfast and Lisburn.
*Passengers are being urged to plan ahead using Translink’s website or Journey Planner and leave some extra time for their journeys.
What passengers can expect from Belfast Grand Central Station…
Doubling of rail platforms from 4 to 8 and an increase in bus stands from 16 to 26 increasing capacity and paving way for increased service frequency across Northern Ireland.
Enhanced accessibility with changing places toilets, sensory spaces, innovative wayfinding systems, assistance dog spending area and wheelchair-accessible vehicle parking.
Cross Border Enterprise services with hourly timetable planned to launch in autumn.
Adjoining streets will give more space to pedestrians and cyclists with parking for over 200 bikes.
Outside will be new public realm space, Saltwater Square, with a strong emphasis on arts and culture.