Multi-million pound investment which saw an hourly rail service introduced between Dublin and Belfast in November 2024 could be further expanded by 2030!
The Enterprise train service between Grand Central Station in Belfast and Connolly Station in Dublin presented a major €12.5m boost for commuters in Co Armagh, with Newry and Portadown stations both benefitting from the change.
However, there was one area in particular that were none too impressed with the increased service.
Business owners and residents of Lurgan voiced their complaints just weeks after the new service was introduced… arguing that the frequency of road closures at railway crossings was causing “gridlock” and persistent delays.
The issue was brought to the attention of Translink bosses and the Minister for Infrastructure for review and remedial action.
Translink responded with an Outline Business Case suggesting a new signal system at level crossings in the town. But with construction of the new Lurgan station anticipated in 2027, the signal works were unlikely to be conducted before 2028.
Nonetheless, the service has proved popular with commuters – almost too popular at times, according to The Irish News.
In October 2025, the publication said the Enterprise service had seen passenger numbers up by 40% in a year with a clear need to find a way to increase capacity to meet demand.
MLA for Newry and Armagh, Justin McNulty asked the Minister for Infrastructure if her Department had any plans to increase the number of train carriages – available for peak hours journeys – on the Belfast to Dublin Enterprise service.
Minister Liz Kimmins replied: “This issue is an operational matter for Translink. I have sought the requested information and have been advised as follows:
“The Enterprise timetable is operated by mixed fleet with three types of rolling stock, including the existing Enterprise train sets supplemented by both Irish Rail and Translink trains – these are scheduled to operate with either six or seven passenger carriages.
“Translink and Irish Rail are currently involved in a project to procure eight new Enterprise trains with the support of DfI, DoT and SEUPB. The project is at the procurement stage. These trains are scheduled to enter service by 2030.”
