Go-ahead for works at train station in Cork

Cork County Council has granted planning permission to Irish Rail for upgrade works at Millstreet train station.

The application submitted by Iarnród Éireann requested permission to provide an additional 46 parking spaces at Millstreet train station, including seven for EV charging stations. The upgrade works would also include the creation of 10 bicycle parking spaces, a bicycle shelter, and a bus set-down/interchange facility.

Subject to funding, construction is expected to begin later this year and to be completed in the middle of 2026.

Speaking to The Echo, Cork North West Fianna Fáil TD Aindrias Moynihan welcomed the council’s decision to grant planning for the upgrade works at Millstreet.

“This is a big milestone in improving public transport locally and it is important to note that people still have the right to appeal this decision,” said Mr Moynihan. 

“Irish Rail submitted the planning application last year and their next step will be to secure funding from the NTA [National Transport Authority] to progress to construction.

“Last summer I was pleased to show the transport minister the site and the plans and have continued to pursue this. Lots of work ahead yet but big milestone reached.”

The planned upgrade at Millstreet train station is part of Iarnród Éireann’s national car park expansion programme. Funded by the NTA, the network-wide programme aims is to provide greater car parking, bicycle parking, EV charging, and bus set-down to facilitate growth in multi-modal journeys.

Also speaking to The Echo, Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea welcomed the news regarding Millstreet train station.

“Millstreet is a station that is very well utilised, both from a Kerry side of things and a Cork side of things.

“To improve the parking situation there first of all is very important. The pedestrian access from the town is going to be improved as part of it as well, so that is a huge positive.

“It is very welcome news and it is good to see that Iarnród Éireann are investing in stations like Millstreet.”