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 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 to Engage

You can contact the project team through the following channels:

Website: www.irishrail.ie/CACR

Email: CACR@irishrail.ie

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

Public Consultation & Next steps

The first of two non-statutory public consultations on the Emerging Preferred Option took place from 18th June to 23rd July 2025. Feedback received during this consultation will help inform the ongoing design development and ensure the plan that best meets Cork's future rail needs. Further studies and assessments with confirm the Preferred Option for the project which will be presented during a second Non-Statutory Public Consultation at a later stage 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

Frequently Asked Questions

Top