Cork Views: Light rail project is central to Cork’s future

Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is delighted to welcome the publication of the emerging preferred route for the light rail network in Cork.

This landmark project will play a pivotal role in transforming Cork’s transport infrastructure, creating a well-connected, efficient and sustainable network that aligns with Cork’s ambitious climate goals.

The emerging preferred route includes 17km of light rail from Mahon Point in the east of the city to Ballincollig in the west, with 24 stops, including Kent station.

This interconnected transport network will allow passengers to change between tram, rail and bus services when travelling to city centre and suburban destinations.

The publication of the route is a major step forward for the project.

The development of a light rail network in Cork has been a priority for Cork Chamber’s members for a long time.

We have seen the benefits of investment in the suburban rail and bus networks, both of which have seen significant increases in passenger numbers as a result, and we believe the delivery of a light rail system will have a transformative impact on Cork city, removing traffic congestion and offering commuters, shoppers and visitors to the city a reliable alternative mode of transport.

It is vital that this key project is delivered at pace and we believe with the right support, this can happen.

We encourage all stakeholders to pull together to make this happen.

I must also emphasise the importance of this initiative in achieving Cork’s carbon neutrality goals.

Cork has signed up to be carbon neutral by 2030 and a sustainable, environmentally-friendly transport network is essential in achieving that.

We encourage the Cork community and businesses to have their say in the development of this crucial piece of infrastructure and contribute to the public consultation process.

Cork Chamber is also delighted to welcome the opening of the new platform 6 at Kent Station, marking the completion of the first of a series of interrelated projects to be delivered as part of the wider upgrade of the Cork commuter rail network.

Recent improvements to the commuter rail network in Cork have already led to a significant increase in passenger numbers.

This €23m platform project, funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility, is a crucial step in the series of projects which will ultimately facilitate a 10-minute service frequency for the Cork rail network.

The first phase of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme includes the new platform as well as twin-tracking and signalling upgrades on the wider network, which are set for completion in 2026.

These will allow for a significant increase in train frequency on each of Cork’s three commuter lines, to Cobh, Midleton, and Mallow, and ensure that Cork is equipped with the rail network to support the city and county’s development.

Continued momentum is needed with regard to suburban rail expansion and the delivery of the rail services outlined in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS).

The electrification of the suburban rail line is essential to move towards a more sustainable future for Cork, and new stations and improved frequencies will further increase Cork’s attractiveness as a place to live and work.

Cork Chamber is committed to making Cork the best place for business.

As the leading business organisation in the south of Ireland, it supports and represents the interests of almost 1,200 businesses employing more than 130,000 people across the region.

Founded in 1819, Cork Chamber is one of Ireland’s largest and longest established Chambers and is the nation’s No.1 regional lobby group.

Supporting sustainable development in the region, Cork Chamber is championing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, through which the Chamber priorities and activities are framed.