Plans to improve the quality of commuting to and from the east side of Galway city will take a step forward next week when contracts are signed for the construction of the double-track loop at Oranmore railway station.
The one kilometre of double track will enable more trains to make the rush-hour journeys to and from the city, enabling more rail users to avail of the facility.
The contract signing will enable the work to commence in the autumn and be completed by early 2024.
The redevelopment will also include the addition of a second platform while accessibility will be improved by the installation of elevators to the platforms.
Landscaping works will also be carried out, as well as design work in the carpark of the station.
Minister for State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton TD, has confirmed to the Advertiser that she has already secured €9 million in funding from the Urban Regeneration and Redevelopment Fund and an additional €3 million from her own Department in order to redevelop the station.
The news was also welcomed by Cllr Alan Cheevers who said the prospect of a designated commuter service going from Athenry to the city is something that is long overdue as a transport option.
“It will serve employees living in the county and working in the city. This is just one option of the Galway Transport Strategy that has been discussed for a number of years, but I welcome the news that it’s finally coming to fruition,” he added.
