Construction begins on major infrastructure project at Cork’s Kent Station
Iarnród Éireann has announced the commencement of construction work on the Kent Station Through Platform Project, marking what it has described as "a significant milestone in the ongoing development of its railway infrastructure in the Cork region". Pic Larry Cummins
CONSTRUCTION has commenced on a new infrastructure project at Cork’s Kent Station, which, when completed will facilitate increased passenger capacity at the station.
Iarnród Éireann has announced the commencement of construction work on the Kent Station Through Platform Project, marking what it has described as "a significant milestone in the ongoing development of its railway infrastructure in the Cork region".
The project is the first in a series of separate, but interrelated projects to reach construction phase being progressed under the Cork Area Commuter Rail programme.
The construction work, which is being carried out by contractor John Cradock Ltd, will take place entirely within the existing railway corridor on Iarnród Éireann land.
The works include a 220-metre long, six-metre wide, double-sided extension to Platform 5, facilitating the creation of a new Platform 6.
The new platform 6 will increase passenger capacity at Cork’s Kent Station and facilitate through-running commuter services between Mallow and Midleton/Cobh.
The works also include the reinstatement of the eastern access to the existing underpass, enhancing accessibility and convenience for passengers.
They also include the installation of canopies on the new platform, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements for customers.
Iarnród Éireann said the project, which is set to be completed by the end of 2024, is essential to increasing passenger capacity at Kent Station.
Commenting on the commencement of the works, Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, said “This is a hugely significant milestone for the expansion of Cork rail services, and I congratulate our project teams for bringing us to the beginning of construction.
"We have over the past 15 months increased off-peak Cork commuter services, leading to passenger numbers in excess of pre-Covid levels. Now, we can start building our network for the major expansion to meet the sustainable transport needs of the future.”
Chief Executive of the National Transport Authority Anne Graham added: “I’d like to welcome the progress being made on the refurbishment of Cork’s Kent Station.
"The investment in the through-platform will facilitate direct services between Mallow and Cobh/Midleton and will facilitate increased frequency and capacity on the commuter network through the city.
“This project is a key element of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy and will put Kent station at the heart of public transport in the city and the region.”
This project is largely funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility, under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP).
The investment will provide for the construction of the through-platform at Kent Station, double-tracking between Glounthaune to Midleton, and re-signalling of the network. These projects will facilitate the future electrification of the Cork commuter rail network.
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