New rail line hit with commuters

LATEST figures from Iarnród Éireann show that the new line to Midleton has been an unqualified success, both for commuters and shoppers.

The signs are that once people realise how easy it is to get to Midleton or Carrigtwohill that demand for property in the area will soar.

“Numbers at off-peak, mainly leisure and shopping travellers, are excellent,” said Iarnród Éireann spokes woman Jane Cregan.

Traders in Midleton have reported an increase in customers since the opening of the €75 million commuter rail line to Cork city.

Passenger numbers were particularly good at off-peak times. Many of those boarding the trains are shoppers.

Midleton Chamber of Commerce president Cillian O’Sullivan said his members were confirming an influx of shoppers, many of whom were visiting the town for the first time. Midleton is known for its wide variety of shops and shopper from Cork city are experiencing a unique local flavour different from the high street multiples.

Midleton’s chamber of commerce is planning of series of events which it hopes will encourage more people from Cork city to visit the town and spend their money.

The chamber is working with Iarnród Éireann on a project to show off what local boutiques had to offer.

A “fashion express” is planned to encourage women from the city, Glounthaune, Carrigtwohill and otehr areas along the line to take the train to a fashion show at the Midleton Park Hotel on Tuesday, September 8.The show will be organised by Claire Cullinane of Elusive Models.

The local chamber of commerce is also looking at doing something special for the October jazz weekend as an alternative to what is going on in the city. Chamber of Commerce members are also working in a plan to attract shoppers for the Christmas season with an emphasis on family-type entertainment.