Planning permission granted for accessibility upgrades for railway station in Carlow

Planning permission has been granted for a significant accessibility upgrade at a local train station in Carlow.

Iarnród Éireann has secured approval for the proposed works at Muine Bheag Railway Station, located on Station Road in Kilcarrig, Bagenalstown, a key stop on the Dublin–Waterford intercity route.

The station currently handles seven trains per day to both Waterford and Dublin Heuston from Monday to Saturday, with four trains per day in each direction on Sundays.

The development will include the installation of a new mobility impaired access structure, featuring lift access, staircases and a connecting walkway to improve accessibility across the station.

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Works will also involve upgrades to existing platforms and pedestrian areas, including the widening of pathways and platforms, the addition of a ramp at Platform 2, and adjustments to on-site parking.

The project will be carried out within the curtilage of a number of protected structures at the station.

The application, initially submitted in September 2025, has now been approved by Carlow County Council, with works expected to proceed subject to 16 planning conditions.

Planning conditions include a restriction on any advertising or signage being placed on the new accessibility structure, to protect the historic character of the station’s protected buildings.

The upgrades are aimed at improving access for passengers with reduced mobility and enhancing movement through the station.