A transformative rail system overhaul for the island of Ireland, involving electrification, additional track capacity, increased speeds, and more frequent services, is set to be unveiled. This comprehensive plan, detailed in the final report from the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, envisions a robust railway infrastructure by 2050, jointly commissioned by authorities from both the north and south.
Ambitious Vision for the Future
The plan’s implementation, encompassing 32 key recommendations, is projected to cost between €35-37 billion by 2050. A significant component is the expansion of the rail network from the current 2,300 km to nearly 3,000 km, involving the creation of new lines and the revival of defunct routes. This expansion will bring train services within 5 km for an additional 700,000 residents, significantly enhancing accessibility.
New Rail Routes and Reopenings
Among the proposed routes, the plan includes:
- Northern Midlands Route: Extending rail service from Mullingar to Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh, and Portadown.
- Northwest Route: Connecting Portadown to Dungannon, Omagh, Strabane, Derry, and Letterkenny.
- Western Rail Corridor: Reinstating the line between Claremorris and Athenry.
- South Wexford Railway: Reconnecting Wexford to Waterford.
Enhanced Airport Connectivity
The vision also entails integrating major airports with the rail network. Dublin, Belfast, and Shannon airports will be linked, facilitating easier and more efficient travel to and from these key transport hubs.
Upgraded Track and Increased Speed
The plan proposes upgrading much of the existing single-track network to dual tracks, enabling the deployment of new intercity trains capable of speeds up to 200 km/h. This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce travel times, in some instances cutting journey durations by half.
Frequency and Accessibility of Services
The review emphasizes increased service frequency, recommending hourly trains between major cities and at least bi-hourly services for regional and rural routes. This enhancement aims to provide more reliable and convenient rail travel options for passengers across the island.
Commitment to Decarbonization
A central pillar of the plan is the commitment to decarbonization. The goal is to achieve a net carbon zero rail system through the electrification of intercity routes and the introduction of new electric trains, thereby supporting sustainable transportation.
Official Endorsement and Future Steps
The final report will be officially presented by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan and Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd in Dundalk. Minister Ryan highlighted the historic nature of the plan, describing it as the most ambitious rail vision in a century, propelling Ireland into a new era of rail transport.
“Rail not only allows us to carry more people and freight sustainably, but it also serves as a great connector, promoting regional accessibility and balanced regional development,” said Minister Ryan. He emphasized the urgency of implementing the recommendations and acknowledged the European Investment Bank’s role in facilitating progress.
Minister O’Dowd echoed these sentiments, calling the review a “historic” and “evidence-based framework” for guiding future rail network investments. The publication follows a draft report released last year and a subsequent public consultation, ensuring that the recommendations are grounded in thorough analysis and stakeholder input.
Integration with Existing Projects
The recommendations of this review complement ongoing projects such as Dart+, which is advancing under the National Development Plan 2021-2030. It is anticipated that the review will inform future rail investment decisions in both jurisdictions up to 2050, aligning with the Department of Transport’s objectives in updating the National Development Plan.
Conclusion
This ambitious rail plan represents a significant step forward in modernizing and expanding Ireland’s rail infrastructure. By 2050, the envisioned network will not only enhance connectivity and accessibility across the island but also contribute to sustainable development and regional growth. The combined efforts of both the Irish and Northern Irish authorities, supported by strategic investments and a commitment to decarbonization, will drive this transformation, bringing profound benefits to passengers and the broader economy.
