New commuter capacity options outlined
Iarnród Eireann submission reveals potential timescales for expanded Limerick commuter services – subject to state financial support.
IARNRÓD Éireann’s submission to the National Transport Authority’s consultation on the Draft Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy that closed on June 10 sets out timelines on several projects it could deliver, if funded by Government to support the strategy.
The consultation outlined four options for expanding commuter rail in the Greater Limerick/Shannon area which include new stations on the Limerick-to-Limerick Junction, Limerick to Ballybrophy and
Limerick to Ennis lines. It also features the reopening of disused Limerick to Foynes line mothballed in 2001 and the Cement factory branch to Mungret mothballed in 2007 for passenger services, as well as a new line from Cratloe on the Limerick-Ennis line to Shannon Airport. Option 1 includes the provisions of two new stations.
IÉ says that subject to funding, it can redouble track from Killonan to Limerick Junction by the end of 2026, with the proposed park and ride station at Ballysimon between Limerick and Killonan by the end of 2027.
On the Limerick to Ennis line, where it is proposed to increase frequency to three trains per hour, Moyross station can be delivered by 2025, but IÉ notes that “infrastructure interventions will be needed in terms of signalling and/or provision of a passing loop and these need to be fully assessed and addressed.”
IÉ confirmed the project for the reinstatement of the Foynes line for rail freight had started and can be delivered, subject to funding, for its targeted date of 2027. The operator said: ”IÉ believes that the strategy should also include a policy to include a target to introduce passenger services to Adare on that line, and the Mungret line, by 2027 and that this is achievable.”
IÉ said that it is critical that the studies required to deliver phase 2 needed to begin at the start of the strategy as an immediate priority.
The Shannon Rail Link feasibility and route option selection study is a key part of this phase, and its construction needs to be prioritised for delivery prior to 2030.