Rail review calls for re-opening of the Western Corridor
The restoration of the Western Rail Corridor (WRC) between Claremorris and Athenry has been included in the latest All-Island Strategic Rail Review published last week.
The comprehensive review, jointly commissioned by authorities in the north and south, sets out a transformative vision for Ireland’s rail system up to 2050. It outlines 32 recommendations including reopening the WRC between Claremorris and Athenry.
The report identified restoring the WRC as a potential intervention to improve connectivity within the western region and adjacent regions. It said this would be beneficial for freight and would allow a direct freight route from Ballina and Westport to ports on the south coast, avoiding congested rail lines around Dublin.
The report said the Claremorris-Athenry railway can be reinstated relatively soon. Other interventions include improving service frequencies between key Mayo towns and Athlone by building more passing loops on this corridor.
The report said decarbonisation strategies should be pursued and implemented. This includes the procurement of hybrid and electric rolling stock in the medium term. The report suggests regional lines, such as the reopened Claremorris to Athenry line through Tuam, could be served by hybrid solutions, such a battery and/or a hydrogen-operated train.
Colmán Ó Raghallaigh, spokesperson for West on Track, said the group warmly welcomed the news, adding there should be no further delay in beginning work on the existing railway which he described as a ‘shovel-ready project’ that could be operational within the next four years. He also noted that the link has been included in the EU’s Ten-T network, making it eligible for European funding.
“People in the West will expect to see appropriate initial funding being made available to initiate the work of restoring the line without delay. An implementation strategy, currently being developed in association with the European Investment Bank is due to be published shortly.”
A spokesperson for the board of Ireland West Airport Knock has said the WRC needs to be developed onwards from Claremorris onto Sligo with connectivity to the airport via Charlestown. They also called for the N17 to be upgraded to motorway status.
“The airport board believes that the further development of this rail corridor onwards from Claremorris for both passenger and freight to Sligo with sustainable connectivity from Charlestown into the airport would significantly contribute to the future sustainable development of ground transportation to and from Ireland West Airport.
“A strategic connection to the rail network would contribute significantly to a more integrated and sustainable form of travel for the many international visitors and travelling public using the airport from across the region.”
