New push for reopening of train station in mid-Louth

Mid-Louth representative, Councillor Dolores Minogue, says she has formally proposed that Louth County Council convenes a meeting of all relevant stakeholders to advance the reopening of Dunleer Railway Station, saying that "is not only timely, but essential given the significant population growth across mid-Louth in recent years".

Calling for the reopening of the mid-Louth railway station, Cllr Minogue told the Dundalk Democrat that Dunleer and its surrounding areas have expanded rapidly, with new housing developments and an increasing number of commuters travelling daily to Drogheda, Dundalk, and Dublin.

The Fine Gael councillor said that: "This growth has placed considerable strain on local and regional road networks. Traffic congestion has become a daily reality, particularly during peak hours, leading to longer commute times, increased carbon emissions, and a reduced quality of life for residents.

"The reliance on private cars is no longer sustainable, and the absence of a functioning rail service in Dunleer is a major gap in our public transport infrastructure.

"Reinstating rail services at Dunleer would provide a viable, efficient, and environmentally responsible alternative for commuters. It would help alleviate traffic pressure on the M1 corridor and surrounding local roads, support national climate targets, and encourage a shift toward sustainable transport."

Read also: Plans underway to convert iconic Market Square building in Dundalk to apartments

Cllr Minogue continued: "It is increasingly difficult to justify why a growing town such as Dunleer remains without access to rail infrastructure, particularly when the line itself remains in operation. The lack of a station is, quite simply, nonsensical in the context of current and projected demand.

"I have formally proposed that the Council convene a meeting of all relevant stakeholders to advance this project to a stage where delivery becomes possible. This should include transport authorities, government representatives, and infrastructure providers, ensuring that all necessary parties are aligned and engaged in progressing the reopening of the station."

She added: "A coordinated and committed approach is now required to move this project from discussion to delivery. The reopening of Dunleer Railway Station would not only serve current residents but would future-proof transport infrastructure for generations to come.

"It is an investment in connectivity, sustainability, and regional development that cannot be overlooked any longer."