Arup central to roll out of rail services at Belfast Grand Central Station

The new terminus station for the region offers enhanced connectivity and integration with the wider public transport network.

As a result, the rail line between Belfast and Lisburn will reopen and Enterprise services will operate from Belfast Grand Central Station which will be the main terminus station for the city.

Having played a significant role in the rail design of Belfast Grand Central Station project, from inception back in 2014, Arup’s scope of work also included master planning, and sustainability strategies as a key infrastructure development aimed at modernising Belfast's transport network.  

Arup’s rail design approach involved identifying challenges including physical, design and planning constraints at an early stage. Working collaboratively with all key stakeholders and Translink from the outset of the feasibility stage, the firm identified the number of platforms required and developed multiple operational layouts for consideration that would deliver the client’s aspirations for the new rail station.

The firm also guided the client through the option selection process. From 2016 Arup progressed the preferred layout option for the station through outline and detailed design, with the purpose of providing increased capacity and improved passenger services, whilst supporting Translink with an extensive first round of public consultation at the end of the year.

Chris Caves, Director at Arup, commented: “The roll out of rail services at Belfast Grand Central Station is an important next step in the journey for this world-class facility which has been designed to bring bus, coach and rail services together under one roof. Arup's expertise and multi-disciplinary approach has been crucial in delivering for our client, Translink, in terms of master planning, ensuring that the station meets modern standards for efficiency, accessibility, environmental sustainability and improved passenger experience.”

The project, still ongoing, represents one of the largest investments in Northern Ireland's public transport infrastructure, with Arup's contributions being central to its development and anticipated success.