A rapid transit light rail system for Belfast is being given fresh consideration by the British government, it was announced today.
Economic feasibility studies on two potential routes are to be carried out, said regional development minister David Cairns.
The studies will prepare public transport appraisals for an rapid transit scheme that would run between Dundonald and Belfast city centre and a service linking the city centre with the Titanic Quarter, George Best Belfast City Airport and new retail development in the Belfast Harbour Estate.
The minister said that although bus-based rapid transit was previously assessed at the time of the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan in 2004 as the most cost-effective and operationally flexible, it was prudent that studies examined other rapid transit options.