Eight New Rail Stations Proposed for Cork as €1 Billion Commuter Programme Enters Next Phase

Iarnród Éireann has launched public consultation on ambitious plans that could see Cork's rail network transformed with eight new stations, full electrification, and trains running every 10 minutes across three commuter lines.

The Phase 2 proposals for the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme promise to bring rail services to previously unconnected communities, including Blarney, Blackpool, Tivoli, and Dunkettle, whilst supporting up to 16 million passenger journeys annually once completed.

The eight proposed new stations are Blarney/Stoneview, Monard, Blackpool/Kilbarry, Tivoli, Dunkettle, Ballynoe, Carrigtwohill West, and Water-Rock. The plans also include a new fleet maintenance depot at Ballyrichard More and strategic Park & Ride facilities at Blarney/Stoneview and Dunkettle.

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien said:

"This project will help transform commuter rail services in Cork. In addition to areas that already have a train service, such as Cobh, Midleton and Mallow, the project's new stations will bring rail to more communities in the growing suburbs to the north of the City, as well as locations such as Tivoli and Dunkettle to the east."

The electrification programme aims to reduce transport carbon emissions whilst supporting the new electric train fleet that will enable the frequent "turn up and ride" service across the Mallow, Midleton, and Cobh lines.

Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Jim Meade explained:

"The overall Programme will deliver a turn up and ride service for customers and ensure more communities in Cork benefit from the increase in capacity, frequency and reliability a fully electrified network can provide."

The consultation builds on Phase 1 progress, which saw the new €23 million Platform 6 open at Kent Station in April, funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility. Work is also underway on twin-tracking between Glounthaune and Midleton, with completion expected in 2026.

NTA Head of Rail Investment Marcello Corsi noted: "The plans provide for significant improvements in commuter rail infrastructure and services, and will be of massive benefit to many communities in the Cork area."

Cork residents can attend consultation events across the county, starting with Kent Station on 24th June from 4pm to 8pm. Additional sessions will be held in Blarney (25th June), Blackpool (26th June), Midleton (2nd July), Cobh (3rd July), and Mallow (9th July), all running 4pm to 8pm. A webinar is scheduled for 10th July at 7pm.

The consultation runs until late July, with full details available at www.irishrail.ie/cacr. Following this feedback period, a second consultation on the preferred option is expected later this year, with a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála planned for 2026.

The programme represents a significant step towards reducing Cork's reliance on private cars, with improved connections planned to bus services, cycleways, and the city's future LUAS system.