Limerick to Shannon Airport rail link moves a step closer
A twenty-year investment strategy for rail networks has now been agreed
THE proposed rail link between Limerick and Shannon Airport is now one step closer to becoming a reality.
Cabinet ministers this morning agreed on the All Island Strategic Rail Review (SRR), which sets out a €30 billion rail investment strategy for the next twenty years.
Deputy Brian Leddin highlighted its importance for Limerick and the Mid-West region.
“There are many elements to the plan which will be very positive for Limerick, but the proposal to build a railway connection between Limerick and Shannon Airport is particularly exciting. It will be a gamechanger for the whole Midwest.”
However, Deputy Leddin sounded a note of caution.
“Getting this project listed on the SRR is just half the battle. Unless there are clear and coordinated calls from politicians, citizens, business and industry representatives and all other stakeholders in the region, then the project could be put on the long finger.
“It is a very deliverable project, but we all must make it a priority to ensure funding is secured from central government and planning begins as soon as possible.”
Other elements of the SRR include completing the Limerick to Foynes railway and developing a concept for local passenger services between Foynes, Limerick City and Shannon Airport; modifications at Limerick Junction to allow for direct services between Limerick and Cork; improving capacity and line speeds between Limerick and Limerick Junction and increasing services between Limerick and Galway, Limerick and Cork, and Limerick and Ballybrophy.