Cork Area Commuter Rail
The Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) programme is a key part of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) 2040, developed by the National Transport Authority in partnership with Cork City and County Councils and Transport Infrastructure Ireland. This transformative investment will enhance the heavy rail network across the region, connecting Mallow, Cork, Cobh, and Midleton, with increased train capacity, frequency, and new stations.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) programme supports a more sustainable, low-carbon transport system by encouraging a shift from private car use to public transport. Key elements include rail electrification, re-signalling, new stations, and Park and Ride facilities contributing to a more connected, efficient, and climate-resilient Cork.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is being progressed through a number of separate but interrelated projects which will be delivered in specific work packages.
Delivery in Phases
Phase 1
Phase 1 includes the delivery of the Kent Station Through Platform, twin tracking between Glounthaune and Midleton, and a comprehensive upgrade of signalling and communications systems.
Phase 2
Phase 2 focuses on proposals for eight new stations, three station upgrades, a new depot, and full electrification of the Cork rail network. This phase is the subject of the current public consultation.
This is the first public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Option for Phase 2 of the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) Programme.
This is more than a rail upgrade. It’s about creating a cleaner, greener, better-connected Cork for the future - supporting communities, cutting emissions, and boosting accessibility across the region.
The CACR will deliver a high-frequency, electrified rail system—targeting service every 10 minutes - connecting Cork’s communities with a fast, sustainable, integrated transport network.
CACR Network Map
Key Elements of Phase 2
- Eight new stations for Cork including Blarney/Stoneview, Monard, Blackpool/Kilbarry, Tivoli, Dunkettle, Ballynoe, Carrigtwohill West and Water-Rock
- Electrification of the Cork rail network to support a new electric train fleet, reduce congestion and cut transport carbon emissions
- A new depot will support the maintenance of the new electric fleet
- Two strategic Park and Rides at Blarney/Stoneview and Dunkettle which will streamline connections from surrounding areas
- Station upgrades to Mallow, Midleton and Cobh to ensure improved accessibility and provide for expected future capacity increases at these three key stations
- Better connections supporting more integrated transport options, including Park and Ride facilities, bus services, cycleways and Cork’s future light rail (LUAS)
How the Emerging Preferred Option was identified
We explored many different options for improving Cork’s rail network. To help identify the best solution, we used a Multi-Criteria Analysis, a structured process that compares options based on key factors like transport benefits, environment, cost, and community impact.
As a result of this process, we’ve identified an Emerging Preferred Option, the plan that best meets Cork’s future rail needs.
This is the first public consultation, and your feedback is important. Now is your chance to have your say and help shape the project before it moves to the next stage.
Public Consultation Materials
** The links above have been tested. If you get an error message, please try to check your Internet connection and refresh the link. If problem persists, please contact us on CACR@irishrail.ie
How to Engage
We welcome your views on the proposed project plans and encourage you to share your local knowledge. Your feedback will help shape the emerging design, improve the scheme, and ensure it benefits you and the communities it serves.
The consultation period is now open until the Wednesday 23rd July.
In person events will be held at the following:
| 24/06/2025 |
Kent Station - Travel Centre on Platform 4 |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 25/06/2025 |
Blarney - Blarney GAA Club T23 KP73 (ISL interpreter 17:00 – 19:00) |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 26/06/2025 |
Blackpool - Blackpool Shopping Centre T23 KDR1 (ISL interpreter 17:00 – 19:00) |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 02/07/2025 |
Midelton - My Place Midleton P25 YT50 |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 03/07/2025 |
Cobh - Cobh Community Centre P24KW82 (ISL interpreter 17:00 – 19:00) |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 09/07/2025 |
Mallow - Mallow Family Resource Centre P51 F344 |
16:00 - 20:00hrs |
| 10/07/2025 |
Webinar - email cacr@irishrail.ie to receive the link to join online |
19:00 - 20:30hrs |
Please provide your feedback by completing the feedback form Feedback Form
You can contact the project team through the following channels:
Website: www.irishrail.ie/CACR
Email: CACR@irishrail.ie
Phone: 087 673 3387*
*Our phone line is open 24 hours a day. If you leave a message, we'll aim to return your call between 9:30am and 5pm the next working day.
Postal Address: If you would prefer to write to us, please send it or any correspondence to:
CACR Community,
Liaison Officer,
Iarnród Éireann,
1 Horgan’s Quay,
Waterfront Square,
Cork. T23 PPT8
Next Steps
The public will be kept informed as the Programme progresses through each stage. Everyone is invited to provide feedback and ensure that local knowledge and insights are reflected in the final design and service delivery.
Further studies, assessments, and consultations will lead to the identification of the Preferred Option, which will be presented at a second Non-Statutory Public Consultation later in 2025 where you can participate further in the decision-making process.
Following the second Non-Statutory Public Consultation we will prepare a Railway Order Application that will incorporate the feedback from both Public Consultants.
Once the Railway Order Application is submitted there will be a statutory consultation period run by An Bord Pleanála where the public will be invited, via public notices, to make submissions, directly to An Bord Pleanála which the Bord will consider in its decision-making process.
FAQs
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) Programme is the largest-ever investment in Cork’s rail network, and a key part of the Cork Metropolitan Area Strategy (CMATS) 2040 designed to deliver more trains, better connections, and a greener future.
The programme will be delivered in phases. Phase 1 consists of the Kent Station Through Platform, the twin tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton Line and a full signalling and telecommunications upgrade across the network. Each of these projects are already underway or completed.
Phase 2 consists primarily of the construction of 8 new stations, upgrades to existing stations, electrification of the network and a new depot. It is the plans for these elements of the programme that are being presented as part of this public consultation.
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Phase 1 of the programme will deliver the Kent Station Through Platform, the twin tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton Line and a full signalling and telecommunications upgrade across the network.
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Phase 2 of the programme includes the delivery of 8 new stations, upgrades to existing stations, electrification of the network and a new depot:
- New Stations (Blarney/Stoneview, Monard, Blackpool/Kilbarry, Tivoli, Ballynoe, Carrigtwohill West, Water-Rock and Dunkettle).
- Upgrades to existing stations (Mallow, Midleton and Cobh)
- Additional upgrade works are currently underway at other stations across the Cork network to improve accessibility and modernise existing facilities including Glounthaune, Carrigaloe and Rushbrooke, with the potential for further developments in the future.
- Strategic Park & Ride facilities at Blarney/Stoneview and Dunkettle
- The proposed strategic Park & Ride facilities will each provide between 400 and 600 spaces, while the local Park & Ride facilities will offer up to 100 spaces. This capacity may be implemented on a phased basis, subject to demand
- Proposed closure of Myrtle Hill level crossing
- New Depot
- Electrification
- It is the plans for these elements of the programme that are being presented as part of this public consultation.
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Public participation during the design process is a key element to the delivery of major infrastructure projects such as the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme. The purpose of this public consultation is to gather feedback on the Emerging Preferred Option to ensure the final design reflects the needs of the local communities, businesses and passengers.
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We welcome your views on these proposals and encourage you to share any local knowledge you have. Your feedback will help shape the emerging design, refine the plan and make sure it delivers real benefits for you and your community.
We are hosting in person events where you can have the opportunity to meet the Project Team to address any questions that you may have, more details on these events can be found on the project webpage. You can either provide a submission at the in-person event, or complete the online feedback form available on the project webpage:
Project webpage: www.irishrail.ie/cacr
Submissions will also be accepted by email: CACR@irishrail.ie
Or in writing:
CACR Community Liaison Officer,
Iarnród Éireann,
1 Horgan’s Quay,
Waterfront Square,
Cork.
T23 PPT8
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The first round of public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Option will run for a total of 5 weeks, from the 18 June 2025 to 23 July 2025.
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Once public consultation is complete, all feedback and submissions will be reviewed and assessed in the next stage of design development. A Public Consultation Feedback Report will document this process and be incorporated into the Options Selection Report.
Further studies, assessments, and consultations will lead to the identification of the Preferred Option, which will be presented at a second Non-Statutory Public Consultation
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All consultation materials and details on how to make a submission can be found online at: www.irishrail.ie/cacr
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- New & Improved Stations – 8 new stations and upgrades to the existing Mallow, Midleton and Cobh Stations.
- Better Connections – More integrated transport options, including Park & Ride facilities.
- An Electrified Network – Electrification and a low-emissions fleet to reduce congestion and cut carbon emissions.
- 10 – Minute Service Frequency – Up to a 10-minute service frequency that will increase capacity and provide a better customer experience for Cork rail users.
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme will deliver increased train capacity enabling up to a 10 - minute service frequency, providing for more connected communities and a more sustainable transport network. Additionally, the provision of new stations as well as upgrades to existing stations will connect communities and support compact urban growth across the Cork Metropolitan Area. The Programme will also provide for a more efficient, sustainable, low carbon and climate resilient heavy rail network that will reduce road congestion and support Ireland’s transition to a greener future.
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Eight new stations are being introduced on the existing rail network and will be delivered in alignment with adjoining land development strategies. Each new station has been carefully planned to enhance connectivity and improve access to key areas, supporting both commuters and local communities.
Blarney/Stoneview Station (51.944048, -8.555367): The proposed location of the new station at Blarney/Stoneview is adjacent to the future Stoneview development, approximately 1.5km northeast of Blarney town centre, along Station Road near the location of the historic Blarney station.
Monard Station (51.939212, -8.510840): The new Monard station will be located within a Strategic Development Zone (SDZ), in the town of Monard, just west of Rathpeacon Bridge.
Blackpool/Kilbarry Station (51.917129, -8.470053): The proposed Blackpool/Kilbarry Station will be located near the historic Blackpool Station, bounded by Dublin Hill Road and Redforge Road.
Tivoli Station (51.904381, -8.412924): The proposed Tivoli Station, as detailed in the Port of Cork’s masterplan, is strategically location near the Lee Estuary, East of Cork City, in an area north of Port of Cork operations and will be accessible via the Tivoli Industrial Road and the N8.
Dunkettle Station (51.906575, -8.374954): The proposed Dunkettle Station, identified within the Metropolitan Cork Strategic Planning Area, will be strategically located near Dunkettle Interchange, providing easy access to major roads such as the M8 and N25.
Carrigtwohill West Station (51.911979, -8.288357): The proposed station will be accessible from Carrigtwohill Business & Technology Park and Fota Retail Park.
Water-Rock Station (51.919775, -8.195382): The proposed Water-Rock Station is located west of Midleton, along the existing Glounthaune to Midleton line and is within the Water Rock Urban Expansion Area.
Ballynoe Station (51.859571, -8.324850): The proposed Ballynoe Station will be located in the townland of Ballynoe, north of Cobh, adjacent to the River Lee, and is identified within the Ballynoe Urban Expansion Area.
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The key stations of Mallow, Midleton and Cobh will have additional platforms, enhanced accessibility features and passenger facilities for a faster, more comfortable experience.
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Supported by the Cork Metropolitan Area Strategy (CMATS) 2040, the new Blarney/Stoneview and Dunkettle stations will include Strategic Park & Ride sites that will streamline connections from the surrounding areas. The locations of the Strategic Park & Ride facilities are supported by modelling and analysis undertaken by the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme Team during the development of the Emerging Preferred Option to support the proposed Cork rail capacity increases.
The proposed strategic Park & Ride facilities will each provide between 400 and 600 spaces, while the local Park & Ride facilities will offer up to 100 spaces. This capacity may be implemented on a phased basis, subject to demand.
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Currently, the heavy maintenance required for the existing Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) fleet is carried out in the Limerick Depot, with routine maintenance being carried out at Cork Depot (adjacent to Kent Station). To meet the needs of the CACR Programme and to support the train service specification (TSS), a new Depot facility will be required to support the maintenance and stabling of the new fleet required to support the frequency and capacity enhancements intended by the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme. The new Depot will also be required to provide appropriate facilities for the accommodation for Iarnród Eireann staff. The proposed new Depot is located on a site in Ballyrichard More. The site is east of Carrigtwohill and bound by the Carrigane Road (L3617) to the north.
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Electrification involves the use of Overhead Line equipment (OHLE) to operate Electric Multiple Units (EMU) trains on the network. These trains pull electricity via a pantograph from the overhead lines to power the train.
An electrified network means the installation of Overhead Line Equipment (OHLE), electrical wires above the track and electrical substations at strategic locations across the network, similar to the current DART network in Dublin.
Further detail in relation to electrification of the Cork rail network, including locations of any proposed substations, will be presented at a later date as part of the second round of Public Consultation.
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is fully aligned with Cork’s and Ireland’s broader plans for sustainable growth and contributes to Ireland's legally binding commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with national climate objectives and supporting the broader decarbonisation of the transport sector.
It delivers key objectives of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) 2040, enabling more people to choose public transport and supporting a shift towards lower-carbon, multi-modal travel.
The Programme contributes directly to Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2025 and is aligned with Project Ireland 2040 and the National Investment Framework for Transport in Ireland (NIFTI). Locally, it supports the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) and City and County Development Plans, ensuring that transport investment matches planned housing, employment, and community growth, all fundamental to sustainable development.
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme will transform Cork's transport system by creating a fully connected network. By linking rail services with BusConnects Cork, the future Luas Cork, and an expanded range of bus, cycling, and active travel routes, the Programme will make public transport easier, more reliable, and more accessible for everyone.
By working closely with stakeholders such as the National Transport Authority (NTA), Cork City and County Councils, and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), we’re ensuring that all elements of this transport network will connect smoothly, forming a fully integrated public transport system for Cork
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Accessibility and inclusivity are key pillars of the design development for the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme. The provision of new stations and upgrades to existing stations made as part of the Programme will guarantee the station interventions and upgrades are fully accessible and compliant with Iarnród Éireann Accessibility Programme standards and international best practice. The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme will provide improved access to the stations under the Programme for individuals with reduced or impaired mobility and other passengers with sensory impairments.
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Weekday passenger services will be prioritised during the construction phase. Construction will take place during off-peak times such as at night time and on weekends. Some specific daytime works on the rail corridor may be required but these will be kept to a minimum.
Advanced notice of any planned disruption to services and of alternative services/connections to be provided will be given.
Detail of potential disruptions to service will be identified as the project progresses.
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Services to existing stations along the Mallow Line (Mallow-Kent), Cobh Line (Kent to Cobh) and Glounthaune to Midleton Line will continue. The only other change will be that there will be more stations, upgraded stations and an increase in train capacity and frequency.
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It is anticipated that on track construction will happen mostly at night and at weekends to ensure that existing services are maintained for commuters. Off track works including those required for the proposed new stations and depot will be undertaken during day time hours.
The construction strategy will be confirmed as Phase 2 of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme progresses and there will be consultation with communities along the line in advance of commencement of the construction phase.
A Construction Environmental Management Plan will be presented in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) as part of the Phase 2 project documentation presented as part of the Railway Order Application.
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme will predominantly seek to confine the railway improvement works within the existing railway corridor. However, where works and modifications are required outside of the existing corridor, some land acquisition may be required. The Programme team is currently engaging with potentially affected property owners. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the design development process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are considered as we progress to the next stage of the project development – the ‘Preferred Option’.
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Railway Order application is broadly similar to the planning application process. The project is categorised as Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) and Iarnród Éireann applies directly to An Bord Pleanála for permission. The Railway Order application process is set out in the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 as amended by the Strategic Infrastructure Act 2006.
Following two phases of public consultation, the project team will submit the Railway Order application. Any person or body may make a submission or observation in writing to An Bord Pleanála in relation to the application and / or the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR).
The Railway Order application will include a number of technical documents and project drawings and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR). The EIAR will:
- Detail the nature and extent of the proposed project.
- Identify and describe potential environmental impacts.
- Outline measures to avoid, reduce, and/or monitor these impacts.
All of these documents and drawings together with any feedback/submissions received from the public as part of the statutory public consultation process will be reviewed and considered by An Bord Pleanála before a decision on the application is made.
An Bord Pleanála may conduct an Oral Hearing before they make a decision. At an Oral Hearing the authors of relevant reports and experts will give evidence on the submissions received and will be available for questioning.
Further information on making a submission / observation in writing to the Board and Oral Hearing procedures are available from the Board’s website www.pleanala.ie
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is being funded by the Government of Ireland through the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the National Development Plan and the Climate Action Plan. Phase 1 of the CACR Programme was supported by EU funding through the European Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF)
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The project is being delivered by Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) with the National Transport Authority (NTA) as the approving authority. The delivery team is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the project meets transport, environmental, and community objectives.
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Once a Railway Order is submitted and approved, construction works are expected to begin shortly thereafter. From the start of construction, the project is expected to take approximately five years to fully complete.
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The project webpage will be updated throughout the project development. You can also request to receive updates when making a submission via the online feedback form which can be found on the project webpage: www.irishrail.ie/cacr
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Further studies, assessments, and consultations will lead to the identification of the Preferred Option, which will be presented at a second Non-Statutory Public Consultation later in 2025 where you can participate further in the decision-making process.
Additionally, once the Railway Order Application is submitted there will be a statutory consultation period where the public will be invited—via public notices—to make submissions, directly to An Bord Pleanála which the Bord will consider in its decision-making process.
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Please provide your feedback by completing the
Feedback Form.
You can contact the Community Liaison Officer, and we will endeavour to address your query or concerns.
Email: CACR@irishrail.ie
Postal Address:
CACR Community Liaison Officer, Iarnród Éireann,
1 Horgan’s Quay,
Waterfront Square,
Cork.
T23 PPT8
Phone: 087 673 3387
For more information on the project, you can look at the project website: www.irishrail.ie/CACR
