The Into the West campaign group, which argued for trains to be allowed into Derry's new transport station, say they are 'deeply disappointed' at Council's decision yesterday to go ahead with Translink's plans.
A spokesperson said the group would continue to fight on to help ensure a 'golden age' for rail in the North West.
He said: "Thank you so much to the 2,923 people who signed the petition about the historic Waterside Railway Station. Like you, we are deeply disappointed that our local Councillors voted in favour of ‘the less than perfect’ over the ‘potentially extraordinary’ by 9 votes to 2.
"The positive news is that this controversial planning application has shown clearly there is significant support for rail as a transport mode in Derry - and certainly more support than even its most passionate advocates had previously realised.
"We therefore can't have a situation where we're told a refurbished railway station amounts to 'our lot' in Derry. It's therefore essential that Translink, the council, Stormont and our local politicians all ensure that further enhancements are planned for Derry's railway system. The most important of these is Phase 3 of the track renewal works - which would enable faster and more frequent trains between Derry and Belfast.
"It is also essential that the council includes a significant role for rail in its Growth Strategy and Local Development Plan. That should include feasibility studies into extending the railway line to Strabane and Letterkenny, and to the opening of new commuter stations on the existing line in places like City of Derry Airport. The rail genie is firmly out of the bottle locally, and people have made it clear that they want it to be taken more seriously as a transport option by those in power. Let's all ensure we create a new golden age for rail in our city and the north-west."
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