Iarnród Éireann has announced the opening of a public consultation on the proposed twin tracking of a section of the rail line between Glounthane and Midleton.
The announcement is part of a package of improvements, which will allow for the tripling of current service frequency, enhanced reliability and an increase in passenger capacity.
The delivery of this project along with the completion of the new Kent Station through-platform, proposed signaling and communications upgrades and the delivery of additional rail cars, will facilitate the operation of a 10-minute service frequency compared to the current 30-minute service.
This is up to six trains per hour per direction from the current two which will increase capacity, foster better connectivity, and enhance the reliability of the suburban rail network.
The package comes after the National Planning Framework 2040 anticipated that Cork will become the fastest growing city region in Ireland, estimating a 50-60% increase in population by 2040.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD said:
"This proposal will deliver exceptional benefits for customers across the Cork Metropolitan Area, enhance service for communities along the line with a tripling of frequency leading to the potential of six trains per hour per direction. Increases in capacity, connectivity and reliability will encourage the usage of public transport going forward and is especially welcomed as the area has projected population increase of upwards of fifty percent by 2040."
There will be two public information days where people can learn more about the project and meet with members of the project team.
