Bellerena bus 'not efficient'

Thus was Rail Minister Conor Murphy's response to a suggestion by Limavady-based MLA George Robinson that a dedicated Translink service may be laid on from the town to the Bellerena railway halt.

Mr Robinson asked the Minister what consideration he has given to introducing the bus service to increase passenger numbers on the Londonderry to Belfast line.

Currently those wishing to use the rail service are obliged to get the Coleraine bus and disembark at the village six miles distance from Limavady.

Mr Murphy replied to Mr Robinson's suggestion: "This is an operational matter for Translink. However, I have been informed that Translink currently operates a service from Limavady to Coleraine that calls at Bellarena halt but that demand from passengers wanting to transfer from the bus to the train is extremely limited.

"Translink considers that the introduction of a dedicated bus service to Bellarena railway halt would not be an efficient use of its limited resources."