Minister Hildegarde Naughton has confirmed that two new bus stops will be provided on the Coast Road, Oranmore, to facilitate access to the train station. The local TD and Government Chief Whip, has been liaising with the National Transport Authority in recent months in relation to the need to provide greater public transport options in the locality.
“I am very pleased to have received confirmation from the NTA that two new bus stops will be provided close to the entrance to Oranmore Train Station as part of the Galway City Bus Network Redesign,” Minister Naughton said. “I have been in contact with the NTA as they worked through plans for the redesign to ensure that public transport options were provided for Oranmore Train Station, where a €12 million redevelopment is planned.
“While works on the redevelopment of the train station were somewhat delayed due to land acquisition issues, I am now informed that planning permission will be lodged in September. It was vital, therefore, that the NTA were also planning for the increased passenger numbers that the upgraded train station will cater for,” the Oranmore native added.
“The redevelopment of the station will include the addition of a second platform and a 1km section of double-track, or loop, that will increase the capacity of the commuter line between Athenry and Galway. Elevators will also be installed to make it accessible to all. Landscaping works will also be carried out, as well as design work in the carpark of the station.
“Users of the station in Oranmore will notice that the works to alleviate flooding on the Coast Road and the installation of lighting are now complete,” she continued. “These projects, for which I previously secured funding, will be complemented by an upgraded cycleway and walkway from the town to the station, once the location of the greenway is finalised in the coming months.
“While the exact locations of the stops and the routes applicable have yet to be determined, it is nonetheless positive that the NTA accept the need for, and have promised stops adjacent to, Oranmore Train Station. Oranmore continues to expand and to cater for this development we need better rail and bus options for people in the locality.”
