Cork Area Commuter Rail Phase Two

The Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) Programme will transform the Cork transport network, delivering improved travel choices, connecting communities and unlocking Cork’s full economic potential. The programme is central to the National Transport Authority's Cork Metropolitan Area Transportation Strategy to transform the public and active transport network for the Cork area.

Phase one includes the new Kent Station platform, twin-tracking of Glounthaune to Midleton and re-signalling of the full Cork network. 

Phase two will provide for eight new stations (including the accelerated delivery of Blackpool and Dunkettle Stations), a new depot and full electrification of the Cork rail network. 

ROD in joint venture with TYPSA (TRJV) were appointed by Iarnród Éireann in 2024 to provide multidisciplinary consultancy services for the design, planning and construction of phase 2 of the programme. We are working closely with Iarnród Éireann and the NTA to deliver the infrastructure to support trains operating up to every 10 minutes across each of the three commuter lines to Mallow, Midleton and Cobh. 

The first of two non-statutory public consultations seeking public feedback on the proposed plans was held in Summer 2025. The second public consultation commenced in May 2026. 

A Railway Order Application will be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála in late 2026. 

• New stations for Cork including Blarney, Monard, Tivoli, Ballynoe, Carrigtwohill West and Water-Rock, along with accelerated Blackpool and Dunkettle Stations
• Electrification of the Cork rail network to support a new electric train fleet, reduce congestion and cut transport carbon emissions
• A new depot to support the maintenance of the electric fleet
• A strategic Park and Rides site at Blarney station. Park and Ride facilities will also be provided at Dunkettle Station
• Station upgrades to Mallow, Midleton and Cobh to ensure improved accessibility and provide for expected future capacity increases
• Better connections to support more integrated transport options, including Park and Ride facilities, bus services, cycleways and Cork's future light rail (LUAS)

In addition to enhancing access to sustainable public transport for new and existing communities, the Cork rail investment programme will alleviate road congestion and build a more connected, efficient, and safe rail network, supporting Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient society, less reliant on private cars. 

• Planning and assessment
• Engineering and multidisciplinary design
• Stakeholder engagement
• Options selection
• Civil engineering and structures design
• SET design
• Traffic Impact Assessment
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Appropriate Assessment
• Flood Risk Assessment
• Planning and Railway Order
• Project Appraisal and Technical Approvals
• Cost management
• Procurement strategy