Rail project back on track

TRANSPORT Minister Séamus Brennan is expected to announce the reopening of the Cork to Midleton railway line tomorrow.

The initial investment, expected to be in the region of €90 million, will be the first of two expected injections of Government cash designed to improve the suburban rail network around the city.

A Department of Transport spokesperson remained tightlipped on the expected announcement last night.

But it is understood the decision to reopen the line was agreed in principal by the Cabinet within the last few days.

Mr Brennan will be in Cork tomorrow to attend the official launch of the city council's park and ride service, fuelling expectations of an announcement.

While a start date for the Cork-Midleton rail project has not been confirmed, the first phase is expected to be completed by 2008.

It will require the laying of up to 12km of track the first new track laid by Iarnród Éireann in more than 50 years.

Other commuter rail line improvements expected to come down the track include increases in frequency on the existing Cobh line, the reopening of a number of stations on the Mallow line, and the opening of stations at Carrigtwohill, Dunkettle, Kilbarry and Blarney. Plans are also in place to build a concourse area on the west side of Kent station.

The overall plan, costed by Iarnród Éireann at €115 million, is based on recent and projected population and industrial development trends outlined in both the city and county development plans. As demand grows, Iarnród Éireann predicts that a second tranche of investment will be required in 2015.

Fianna Fáil's Noel O'Flynn said this plan represents a significant investment in both the city and county.