THE Limerick to Foynes Freight Line, new stations at Moyross and Ballysimon, and improvements in the Limerick to Galway line capacity have all been given the green light under Iarnród Éireann’s plans for Limerick.
Iarnród Éireann this week outlined ambitious plans for growth, sustainability, and enhanced connectivity in Limerick.
The rail company has a 2,200km rail network serving 146 stations and saw over 50 million journeys completed last year.
Announcing the plans, Iarnród Éireann said it is “committed to strengthening regional connectivity, supporting compact growth, and playing a key role in Ireland’s Climate Action Plan”.
Under the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, approximately €24billion will be invested in rail infrastructure over 25 years, averaging €960million per year.
Limerick key developments include the Limerick to Foynes Freight Line.
Upon completion, the renewed track will represent an investment in the region of just over 2151m, with the revitalisation of the 42km railway line playing a key role in the rail freight vision.
Inactive since 2001, the line is being restored to support the return of rail freight services, with freight operations expected to begin by mid-2026. Trackwork is set for substantial completion over the coming weeks while signalling and telecommunication upgrade works continue across the line.
New rail stations in Moyross and Ballysimon are planned to improve connectivity for the local communities and support urban regeneration and growth.
Planning for Moyross is due to be submitted in the second quarter of 2025, while option selection continues for Ballysimon.
The Moyross station will integrate with the Limerick City and County Council’s University Avenue project, the NTA’s BusConnects, and the proposed Limerick CycleConnects Network.
The preferred location is adjacent to Corpus Christi Parish Church and Moyross Health Centre, providing access to local amenities including Thomond Park and the Technological University of the Shannon.
Work is ongoing to identify opportunities to enhance the Limerick to Galway line, the rail company says. Line enhancements will also help increase train services between Galway and Limerick.
CEO of Iarnród Éireann, Jim Meade, said “we are committed to delivering a rail network that drives regional growth, enhances connectivity, and advances Ireland’s climate ambitions”.
“Our investment in Limerick through transformative projects like the Limerick to Foynes Freight Line, the new stations at Moyross and Ballysimon, works to enhance the Ennis line and the Colbert Station Multi-Modal Interchange reflect our vision for a more sustainable and connected future. These developments will not only improve passenger and freight services, but also support economic development, urban regeneration, and a lower-carbon transport network.”
