Project Profile: Coleraine-Derry~Londonderry Line Upgrade

This project profile details the multi-phase infrastructure renewal of the Coleraine to Derry~Londonderry railway line in Northern Ireland, operated by Translink NI Railways. The comprehensive upgrade replaced life-expired assets with modern systems to enhance operational capacity, service frequency, and passenger journey times. The works included extensive track renewal with Continuous Welded Rail (CWR), signaling modernization, and key structural repairs, solidifying the line’s role as a critical transport artery in the region.

Technical Specifications

The core of the upgrade was a comprehensive track and signaling renewal program executed across three phases. The project replaced legacy jointed track with modern Continuous Welded Rail (CWR) on a renewed ballast bed, using approximately 5,600 tonnes of new rail. The installation, which included mobile flash butt welding by Sersa UK, eliminated critical speed restrictions and reduced maintenance requirements. A key strategic enhancement was the construction of a passing loop at Bellarena, which was essential for increasing service capacity from a limited timetable to a consistent hourly service between Derry~Londonderry and Belfast.

Signaling systems were modernized by Babcock to support the increased service frequency and improve operational safety. Structural works were also significant, involving the refurbishment of the 11-span lifting bridge over the River Bann and the complete replacement of the two-span Pottagh Bridge. Station infrastructure was also upgraded, with platform extensions at Castlerock and new platforms at the Bellarena loop, ensuring compatibility with modern rolling stock and improved passenger access.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Operational Resilience: The full replacement of aged track and the remediation of formation “wet spots” significantly improved the line’s reliability, reducing failures and enabling consistent all-weather operation.
• Increased Service Frequency and Capacity: The Bellarena passing loop and modernised signalling system were the critical enablers for Translink to introduce a reliable, hourly service, which directly correlated with a significant increase in passenger ridership.
• Strategic Regional Economic Catalyst: By improving the speed, reliability, and frequency of rail services along the Northern Corridor, the project has reinforced the line’s role in supporting regional economic growth and connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was the main purpose of the Coleraine to Londonderry line upgrade?
The primary purpose was to comprehensively modernize the railway infrastructure between Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry. This involved replacing old track, upgrading signaling systems, and constructing a new passing loop to increase train frequency, improve reliability, and enhance the overall passenger experience on this vital Northern corridor.

Who were the main contractors for the Derry~Londonderry rail upgrade?
The project involved a consortium of specialized contractors. Bam Contractors and FP McCann managed the track renewal, McLaughlin & Harvey constructed the Bellarena passing loop and station works, Sersa UK was responsible for advanced rail welding, and Babcock delivered the signaling system upgrades.