PLANS for a €30billion investment in rail travel approved by the government this week puts a rail link from Limerick City to Shannon Airport a concrete step closer.
Limerick Green Party TD Brian Leddin described plans for the link – which are part of the now finalised All Island Strategic Rail Review (SRR) – as a “gamechanger” for the region.
The review, undertaken by the Irish Government in partnership with the Northern Ireland Executive, sets out a €30billion rail investment strategy for the next 20 years.
Deputy Leddin highlighted its importance for Limerick and the Mid West Region, saying that “there are many elements to the plan which will be very positive for Limerick, but the proposal to build a railway connection between Limerick and Shannon Airport is particularly exciting.”
However, Deputy Leddin sounded a note of caution.
“Getting this project listed on the SRR is just half the battle. Unless there are clear and coordinated calls from politicians, citizens, business and industry representatives, and all other stakeholders in the region, then the project could be put on the long finger,” he said.
“It is a very deliverable project but we all must make it a priority to ensure funding is secured from central government and planning begins as soon as possible.”
Other elements of the SRR include completing the Limerick to Foynes railway and developing a concept for local passenger services between Foynes, Limerick City, and Shannon Airport; modifications at Limerick Junction to allow for direct services between Limerick and Cork; improving capacity and line speeds between Limerick and Limerick Junction; and increasing services between Limerick and Galway, Limerick and Cork, and Limerick and Ballybrophy.
