Irish Rail to Build Two New Stations in Cork, First of Eight Under Commuter Rail Program

Irish Rail has announced plans to construct two new train stations in Cork, with a planning application for a station at Blackpool to be submitted imminently, followed by another for Dunkettle within weeks. These developments mark the initial phase of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme, which aims to deliver a total of eight new stations and enhance rail services in the region.

Construction for both stations is anticipated to commence next year and is projected to take up to two years to complete, contingent on securing necessary planning approvals and funding. The broader program seeks to significantly improve commuter rail frequency to every 10 minutes on three key routes: Cork to Cobh, Midleton, and Mallow.

The Blackpool station will serve the Mallow to Cork route, while Dunkettle is envisioned as a significant park-and-ride facility, accommodating trains from both the Cobh and Midleton lines. Irish Rail projects that daily passenger journeys at these two new stations will surpass 5,200 by 2035. Both proposed stations are situated on land already owned by Irish Rail.

Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the planning applications. He emphasized that the initiative is crucial for supporting Cork’s growth, alleviating traffic congestion, and promoting sustainable travel options for residents.