Senator Pauline O’Reilly has welcomed the opening of a public consultation on the pedestrian and cycleway route from Oranmore town centre to the train station.
Since Oranmore train station opened 11 years ago, locals have been campaigning for a safe and convenient pedestrian and cycle route from the town to the station.
"When the Green Party negotiated the Programme for Government, a massive increase in investment for active travel was central to our aims," she said. "Without this record investment we would be waiting another decade for movement on schemes such as this”.
Planning was lodged for a passing loop and second platform at Oranmore station in September.
“The redevelopment of Ceannt Station is continuing at pace, as a frequent rail user myself, I look forward to greater comfort this will provide to the travelling public.
"As well as shops, toilets, waiting areas, this will provide three more platforms, which gives us the opportunity to grow rail services out of Galway in the future. The next step will be to develop a second platform at Oranmore, then double track to Athenry, and finally reopen the Athenry to Tuam line," added Sen O Reilly.
“Since August, five extra services a day stop in Oranmore, but the challenges remain. Even with extra carriages and extra trains, overcrowding occurs in the morning.
"Connectivity to the station from Oranmore town is another issue that comes up on the doorsteps. Today’s announcement is a big step forward in addressing that connectivity. I urge people to look at the maps of the shared (pedestrian and cycleway ) route from the mini roundabout in Oranmore to the train station.
"My first thought is that it will require more pedestrian crossings, and I have concerns that the T-Junction near Super Valu will be difficult for cyclists to navigate under the current proposal. I am hopeful these issues can be resolved”.
“The future is bright for Oranmore, with better footpaths on the way, new schools planned, another train platform. I want to continue my work in the Oireachtas so I can keep delivering for this area," she concluded.
