Revitalisation works provide new opportunity to ‘transform’ Limerick town
ORIGINALLY built in 1849, Kilmallock railway station has now undergone repairs and a local councillor has emphasised the true potential of the station building in Limerick following its full refurbishment.
The replacement of a section of the roof over the former ticket office and the additional renovations which are currently underway, have sparked Councillor PJ Carey’s suggestion that the listed building could serve as a base for local organisations who may be actively seeking a suitable location.
“It would be great to see the building used in some way, possibly a club or an organisation in the town like the Red Cross for example, who are currently looking for a base,” said the Sinn Féin councillor.
In line with his commitment to support the development of the local railway station, the Cappamore-Kilmallock representative presented a motion to Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) earlier this year.
The motion called for the local authority to address objective T12 of the Kilmallock Local Area Plan, which aims to enhance public transport infrastructure within the town and support the future growth of the railway station.
As part of this objective, Cllr Carey proposed a feasibility study and the creation of a business plan.
Highlighting the environmental benefits of a robust rail system, he referenced the Irish Rail Freight Strategy 2040, which advocates for an extensive rail freight network.
The strategy targets a substantial reduction of 25,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
However, the realisation of this vision necessitates the development of additional infrastructure.
Drawing attention to the success of other small towns, such as Killucan in Westmeath, which have recently been granted similar feasibility studies, Cllr Carey believes that exploring the potential for a terminal rail freight or intermodal terminal in Kilmallock is crucial.
In collaboration with Iarnród Éireann, it is understood that LCCC is currently engaged in correspondence to prepare a comprehensive feasibility study
Furthermore, it is expected council representatives will address Minister for Transport Eamonn Ryan regarding the importance of this initiative.
As a resident of the busy sporting town, Peter Hennessy has questioned why the station is not operational as an alternative transportation hub for the people of Limerick, alongside Colbert Station in the city.
With All-Ireland SHC participation a staple of Limerick people’s itinerary, and the Ryder Cup on the way to Adare, the town's resident is questioning why the Kilmallock travel hub is not an option for people to filter in and out of the county.
The potential to transform the station represents an exciting opportunity for the town, and its locals await the results of the feasibility study.