Appeals over rail plan for Limerick ‘disappointing’

APPEALS lodged against aspects of the over €100 million Limerick to Foynes Railway project have been called “disappointing” at the monthly meeting of the municipal district of Adare-Rathkeale.

Peter Sweetman, acting on behalf of Wild Ireland Defence, submitted one of the appeals against an aspect of the Limerick to Foynes rail project.

Mr Sweetman submitted the appeal against plans to raise the height of a railway bridge in Adare.

Independent councillor for Adare-Rathkeale, Emmett O’Brien understands that these individuals have a right to appeal but hopes they won’t slow down the project as a whole.

“It’s fantastic to see this project which is moving at pace,” Cllr O’Brien said. “I am disappointed that these appeals have gone in.

“My main concern is whether this appeal will push back the time frame down the line.”

Flood model determines raising of barriers in Limerick city

Iarnród Éireann are increasing the height of the crossing over the River Maigue to protect against potential flooding in the area.

The Limerick to Foynes rail project kicked off earlier this year, with a strategic approach that involved initiating construction in the Foynes area before progressing eastward towards Limerick city.

Key components, such as all the required rail materials and an initial batch of new concrete sleepers, have already been delivered to the construction site.

The project was given the green light as freight rail demand is expected to rise across Europe over the next number of years largely as an attempt to lower carbon emissions.

The railway line, covering a 42km stretch between Limerick and Foynes, originally opened in 1858 but ceased passenger services in 1963.

Freight services persisted until 2001 when the line was declared inactive, although it remained under the stewardship of Iarnród Éireann.

It is expected that the Limerick to Foynes railway project will be up and running for freight in 2025 .