Pressure Continues for the Phase 3 Works

Dear Supporter,

Thank you for signing the Into The West petition to demand that the third and final phase of modernisation work to the train line between Derry and Coleraine takes place.

The work was originally scheduled for 2021. But in the absence of a government at Stormont, the Department for Infrastructure put it back to 2027 - and now say it won't happen at all.

Phase 3 is essential to ensure we have faster, more frequent trains from Derry. And it also opens up the possibility of a new station being created at or near City of Derry Airport. Until Phase 3 happens, there can be NO significant improvements to rail west of the Bann - so it's the key that will unlock future improvements here.

With a new Minister for Infrastructure now in place, we are lobbying hard to ensure the Phase 3 work is rescheduled back to 2021 again (or as soon as possible). We have recently held separate meetings with the Council's Chief Executive and the new MP for Foyle on this and other rail issues. We have requested to meet with the new Minister to present our case directly to here. And we are presenting to the North West Regional Council (the combined Derry & Donegal body) on rail at the end of this month. 

Having as many names on this petition as possible will be vital for when we meet the Minister, as it will show that people care about improving rail here. So thanks again for being one of the 2,300 signatories so far - and please do continue sharing it and encouraging others to sign it too.

We'll continue to keep you posted on the campaign.

Yours in Rail,

Steve Bradley, Co-Chair, Into The West

P.S. Please continue sharing the petition and encouraging others to sign it. It will give the campaign real weight for when we meet the Minister. Thanks.