All-Island Strategic Rail Review Aims to Enhance Connectivity and Decarbonisation in Ireland
Key Ideas
  • Ambitious plans have been outlined to enhance rail connectivity across Ireland, with recommendations to restore, build, and expand rail networks in 31 out of 32 counties over the next 25 years.
  • The All-Island Strategic Rail Review includes proposals for increased track capacity, electrification, higher speeds, and more frequent services on existing networks in the short term, aiming to make train travel quicker and environmentally friendly.
  • The review also addresses decarbonisation strategies, considering options like electrified railways, battery electric trains, and hydrogen-powered trains to reduce carbon emissions and support long-distance passenger services.
  • The estimated capital cost for implementing all recommendations by 2050 is between €35 billion and €37 billion, with 75% to be funded by the Government and 25% by the Northern Ireland Executive, aiming for economic benefits and a return on investment over time.
The All-Island Strategic Rail Review in Ireland aims to significantly enhance rail connectivity across the country, with plans to restore, build, and expand rail networks in 31 out of 32 counties over the next 25 years. The review proposes various recommendations to make train travel quicker and environmentally friendly, including restoring lines between different counties, building new direct lines, and connecting airports to the rail network. While some proposals are expected to proceed in the short term, the review also focuses on medium- to long-term ambitions, such as decarbonisation strategies for the railways. Options considered include electrified railways, battery electric trains, and hydrogen-powered trains to reduce carbon emissions and support passenger services over long distances. The estimated capital cost for implementing all recommendations by 2050 is between €35 billion and €37 billion, with funding expected from the Government and the Northern Ireland Executive. The upfront costs are aimed to be spread over 25 years, with the potential for economic benefits and a return on investment. The review highlights the importance of developing an All-Island Rail Decarbonisation Strategy, investing in skills and supply chains for decarbonisation, and procuring hybrid and electric rolling stock in the medium term.
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