Train

Grand Central enabling works

The rail line between Lisburn and Belfast Lanyon Station is currently closed to enable works to take place for the opening of Belfast Grand Central Station later this year. Alternative arrangements are in place using bus substitution services. For more information visit https://www.translink.co.uk/bgcsworksupdates or telephone 028 9066 6630.

Trains in Northern Ireland

Routes and timetables

Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)

Under the DDA disabled people have rights when using train services. Rights under the DDA mean:

• Transport providers should not treat you less favourably than other passengers because of your disability.
• Transport providers must also make changes called reasonable adjustments to help you use their services more easily.
• Transport providers must make their stations accessible to you.
• Transport providers must buy trains that meet accessible standards.
• Transport providers must make information about their services accessible to you.

The Equality Commission

Using your rights under the DDA can be a challenge. The Equality Commission is the body responsible for promoting and enforcing the DDA in Northern Ireland and can give you advice about your rights when travelling by train.

Visit the Equality Commission website.

Large railway stations

Improvements have been made at all the main railway stations to provide accessible facilities including:

• Step-free access.
• Accessible toilets.
• Accessible ticket desks.
• Audio and visual passenger announcements.

Opening times of station facilities can vary. Some station facilities only open from 8am to 5pm on week days. Times on Saturdays may vary and facilities at some stations are closed all day on Sunday.

Changing Places Facilities

Portrush, Lanyon Place, York Street and the North West Transport Hub train stations have Changing Places facilities.

Smaller stations/halts

Smaller halts on the rail network are not staffed and accessibility differs from location to location. Steps and footbridges are not uncommon at these small stations.

It is advised to check with Translink if the station you want to travel from is accessible. If it is not Translink are required to provide you with an alternative means of making this journey at no extra cost to you.

Translink Station & Facilities Guide

Translink has produced a guide to their stations and facilities. This guide is currently under review.

Trains

Each train has a range of features to help you use them including:

• An boarding ramp stored on-board (main stations also have ramps on platforms).
• Dedicated space for two wheelchair users.
• Other priority seats for disabled people.
• An accessible toilet.
• Audio-visual announcements.

Translink Wheelchair & Scooter Policy

Due to the design of trains there are limitations on the size of wheelchairs and mobility scooters that can be accommodated on trains.

Learn more about Translink’s Scooter and Wheelchair Policy.

Accessibility in the Republic of Ireland

If you are travelling in the Republic of Ireland you can find out more about train and station accessibility on the Iarnród Éireann website.

Assistance at stations

Mainline stations are generally staffed only during opening hours. Most small stations and halts are unstaffed. Staff should assist you to use services and facilities including:

• Assisting to get on and off the trains and around the station.
• Assisting you to obtain a ticket.

Assistance on trains

Every train in Northern Ireland has a conductor on-board who can assist in making your journey easier. Types of assistance include:

• Deploying the ramp to help you get on-board.
• Clear any obstructions out of your way.
• If you need to use a priority seat including the space for wheelchair users they should ask anyone sitting there to move.
• Issuing you with a ticket for your journey.

Translink Access Guide

For more information about the assistance you should receive travelling by train use the Translink Access Guide. The Guide is currently being reviewed.

Discounted fares

Many older people and disabled people are eligible for discounted travel on all Translink train services.

For  more information about the discounts available visit the NI Direct website.