‘Transformative’ transport projects key to ‘more sustainable future for Cork’

Significant progress on two major transport infrastructure projects is set to transform connectivity in the region, a leading Cork business association has said.

Cork Chamber has hailed the announcement this week of the advancement of the N/M20 Cork to Limerick motorway to the design and environmental evaluation phase, and the launch of a public consultation on Phase 2 of the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) programme.

Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, said the N/M20 Cork to Limerick project was a vital piece of infrastructure for the region as a whole.

“By enhancing connectivity, improving road safety and promoting active, multi-modal travel options along the route, the N/M20 will be a transformative project for communities across Cork, Limerick and further afield,” he said.

The project had the potential to transform connectivity in the southern region, Mr Healy said, and it would enhance Ireland’s overall economic competitiveness and unlock opportunities for investment and development in the south of Ireland.

“We welcome the commitment to open engagement with key stakeholders over the coming weeks as the project team prepare for the submission of a business case for Government approval, followed by a planning application next year.” 

He noted that the N/M20 Cork to Limerick route was a key strategic project, identified in Project Ireland 2040 as essential to improving Ireland’s competitive offering and quality of life for residents.

“It is vital that Government commits to funding and delivering the M20 in line with the projected timelines to provide certainty for local communities, businesses and other stakeholders,” he said.

The launch on Wednesday of a public consultation on Phase 2 of the CACR marked another welcome step forward in the development of a future-proof transport network for Cork city and county, Mr Healy added.

“Improvements to Cork’s suburban commuter rail network, such as the recent opening of Platform 6 in Kent Station, are already resulting in a welcome increase in passenger numbers.

“Proposals under Phase 2 include eight new stations, a new depot and the electrification of the suburban rail line – all essential to move towards a more sustainable future for Cork, increasing Cork’s attractiveness as a place to live and work,” he said.

“Continued momentum is now needed to support the delivery of the next phase of the ambitious plans for Cork’s commuter rail network, which will play an important role in delivering future-proof, sustainable travel options, enhancing connectivity across the city region and supporting Cork’s growth and development in the years to come.” 

Speaking in Kent Station at the launch of the public consultation on Wednesday, AJ Cronin, CACR delivery manager with Iarnród Éireann, said that, pending planning and funding considerations, five of the proposed eight new train stations in the greater Cork metropolitan area could be completed by 2030.

He added that there was already sufficient demand to justify the construction of stations at Blarney/Stoneview, Blackpool/Kilbarry, Dunkettle, Carrigtwohill West and Water Rock.