Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) has begun work on the Foynes-Limerick rail line as part of a €104 million overhaul. According to RTÉ, the rail operator has already begun clearing vegetation along the 42km track.
In the coming weeks, Irish Rail will begin critical construction work on the rail line. The old track will be removed, followed by the installation of a new rail track and sleepers, as well as the revamping of road infrastructure at level crossings. Other projects will include the rehabilitation of bridges and culverts, as well as the replacement of lineside fencing.
The Foynes-Limerick rail line opened as a passenger line in 1858, serving the Patrickswell, Adare, Askeaton, and Foynes regions. It was demolished in 1963. Until 2001, the line provided freight services. After falling into disrepair, it has been inactive for more than 20 years.
The first phase of the 42km line, which will cost around €64 million, is scheduled to be completed in two years. A signaling system, CCTV at level crossings, and train communications systems will be installed on the line during phase two of the project.
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The project scope for the Foynes-Limerick rail line
The project is expected to be finished by 2025. It will include track connections as well as upgrades at the Limerick and Foynes yards. According to Irish Rail CEO Jim Meade, “our freight services are about creating connections. It will also give businesses more opportunity to switch from road freight to more sustainable rail freight.”
It also aligns with Shannon Foynes Port’s recently launched 2041 Masterplan. Consequently, the plan will transform the port into a hub for the production of giant ocean-based green wind turbines off the Shannon estuary. It also intends to set a location for the production and transportation of green energies such as hydrogen and ammonia.
A good rail service that serves business and logistics at the port is a critical component of that strategy. There have been several calls for the reopening of the Foynes-Limerick rail line. Its opening would facilitate stronger freight transport, using interconnected rail and ship services. This would help the movement of goods rather than roads, in order to meet a number of EU, national, and regional transport and climate objectives.
