New Limerick train service nears completion as live testing begins
The test unit will return to the line regularly over the coming weeks to support driver route training
A SIGNIFICANT milestone has been reached in the renewal of the Limerick to Foynes Freight Line as live testing began last weekend.
This marked the start of the first services on the line since decommissioning 25 years ago, with the line expected to enter operation next year.
An Iarnród Éireann spokesperson said: “While adverse weather conditions presented some challenges to the long weekend’s testing schedule, the dedicated on-site testing team of Iarnród Éireann experts successfully ran the first test train on the newly reinstated line, a significant milestone and the first train to run on the line since its decommissioning in 2001.
“The two-car passenger train is being used to test all of the signaling and telecommunications infrastructure, to commission the level crossings infrastructure and safety signals, and to fault find in the event of any issues arising.”
The test unit will return to the line regularly over the coming weeks to support driver route training and further testing of the line infrastructure, before the line is expected to enter operation in the first half of 2027.
Iarnród Éireann have warned that customers and local communities should note that test trains are now operating on the line and will continue to operate over the coming weeks and months as the infrastructure is tested and driver route training takes place.
“All level crossing users, pedestrians and drivers, are advised to always expect a train, never assume the way is clear and obey level crossing safety signals.”
The €151.5 million Limerick to Foynes Freight Line project has been delivered in a four-year timeframe and includes:
- Completion of 42km of track reinstatement
- Closure and upgrades of user worked level crossings
- Installation of signalling & telecoms infrastructure
- Full refurbishment of Foynes Station building and train shed roof
- Connection of Foynes line to existing network at Limerick
- Reinstatement of 13 public road level crossings with CCTV monitored crossings, representing an improvement in safety over the previous gated crossings
The spokesperson added: “Iarnród Éireann Rail Freight 2040 Strategy will position rail at the centre of Ireland’s freight transport system, creating connections and giving greater opportunity for business to switch from road freight to more sustainable rail freight.
“Reopening of the line, working with Shannon Foynes Port Company, will deliver a reliable, frequent, and sustainable logistics option for many companies that currently or in the future will use the port of Foynes.”