Clare O'Loughlin
Europe Press Office, Ireland
Ireland’s Department of Transport (DoT), in cooperation with the Department for Infrastructure Northern Ireland (DfI), has appointed Arup as the technical consultant to strategically review the rail network on the island of Ireland.
Focused on improving sustainable connectivity between major cities and enhancing regional development over the next 20 years, the comprehensive study will look at ways to improve current infrastructure, including the feasibility of higher speeds, improved connectivity to the North-West and the creation of a strategic plan for freight. The results will enable DoT and DfI to take an evidence-based approach to enhancing low carbon rail links, building a more resilient connected network to support sustainable growth across the island.
Transport systems have a major role to play in Ireland’s journey to meet its climate commitments. The All Island Strategic Rail Review will focus on providing opportunities to decarbonise the rail network, in line with the European Green Deal, Ireland’s Climate Action Plan and the UK’s 2050 Net Zero commitment.
Focusing on the needs of communities and the opportunities rail provides to enhance social and economic development, the strategic review will cover both inter-urban and rural connectivity. By identifying current constraints to rail travel, Arup’s transport specialists will then balance decarbonisation priorities, economic growth and rural connectivity objectives to recommend a strategy that allows rail to fulfil its potential as a resilient and sustainable mode of transport for people across Ireland.
