The Lord Mayor has renewed calls for the Portadown to Armagh rail link to be “treated as a top-tier infrastructure priority” after meeting campaigners at the Palace.
Alderman Stephen Moutray has reiterated support for the project as he, accompanied by Councillor Scott Armstrong, discussed the ongoing rail re-opening with representatives of the Portadown Armagh Railway Society.
The meeting centred on Shaping the Future, the strategic document published by Translink and the Department for Infrastructure, which outlines proposals for reinstating the line.
The report estimates a capital cost of £200–£245 million, covering new rolling stock and the construction of new stations at Richhill and Armagh.
It also highlights the potential for a future cross‑border extension to Monaghan, aligning with the ambitions of the All‑Island Strategic Rail Review.
Alderman Moutray welcomed the progress and emphasised the strategic importance of the project.
“I have seen first‑hand the brilliance of Armagh City and, more importantly, its untapped potential,” he said.
“Armagh has so much to offer — from our two Cathedrals to the Observatory and Navan Fort — yet many visitors are discouraged by the lack of a railway link to this historic city. I would welcome the reinstatement of the railway line without hesitation. This project would not only benefit Armagh City but deliver significant advantages for the entire Borough.”
Councillor Scott Armstrong highlighted the growing desire to see the link re-opened.
“Momentum is key in projects like this, and across Armagh there is now a real sense of excitement about what the railway could unlock,” he said.
“With the announcement of the Gaol Transformation Plans, the Navan Fort UNESCO bid, and several major projects already in the pipeline to enhance our city, the railway line could be the piece that ties everything together.”
He added that restoring the line would deliver wide‑ranging benefits, including increased city‑centre footfall, strengthened tourism, improved regional competitiveness for jobs and housing, and a more sustainable transport network.
“There has been strong momentum for the restoration of the Portadown–Armagh line, driven largely by the dedicated work of PARS. That momentum cannot be lost,” said Councillor Armstrong.
“I will be writing to the Minister to ensure this project remains a top priority and that Armagh secures the infrastructure it deserves.”
