Commuting by rail for Oranmore and Athenry residents is set to improve with an additional platform and new passing loop at the Oranmore train station.
Minister of State in the Department of Transport Hildegarde Naughton says the improvements will boost capacity and frequency for those commuting from two areas.
Speaking at the official contract signing, Hildegarde Naughton said once completed, the development will double the number of trains serving Oranmore at peak times.
“At the core of the contract signing is the very people of Oranmore, Athenry and further afield. Be it travelling to and from Galway city for a medical appointment, college, socialising or work, time is of the essence for the community here and this project will directly impact the daily lives of those who use it."
The project is co-funded by the departments of transport and housing, with €3 million from the Department of Transport and €9 million from the Department of Housing.
Minister Naughton says with installation of new lighting along the coast road, this route will be further enhanced by a new cycleway and footpath from the village of Oranmore to the train station.
"I am confident that this combined investment in Oranmore will make travelling sustainably to and from the city even more accessible and attractive into the future.”
The proposed new station layout will see capacity increase to four trains per hour and is intended that the lands surrounding the station will eventually deliver up to 1,100 residential units, as well as employment, commercial, educational and community spaces.
"Critical to the success of this plan is the provision of good quality public transport and the upgrade of Oranmore Station will significantly enhance services."
