Local TD and Oranmore native, Minister Hildegarde Naughton, has received confirmation from Galway County Council that the new Oranmore walk and cycleway, connecting the town centre to Oranmore Train Station, will finally enter the planning process in the next few months.
“While unfortunately somewhat delayed, I am pleased to have received confirmation from Galway County Council that this vital project will shortly go to planning. This new project will encompass the existing Coast Road between the mini roundabout at the top of Main Street, Oranmore, to the entrance at the Oranmore Train Station carpark,” Minister Naughton said.
She was informed that the Preliminary Design package is being finalised at the moment and will be submitted to the NTSA for final review and approval very shortly – once that step is completed the planning phase can commence, including the public consultation on the final design.
“This is a vital project as substantial works on the Train Station will commence in the next few months.
“This will be a €13 million overhaul of the station infrastructure, which I ensured was funded, including a second platform and passing loop. It will substantially increase capacity at the station, and it is vital that people can walk and cycle to the redeveloped station in safety,” Minister Naughton commented.
“Irish Rail are conducting a major study at present to identify infrastructure upgrades for the Galway-Dublin rail line to increase capacity, frequency, and speed. This will mean increased use of the line, particularly by commuters from Athenry and Oranmore, and we need to ensure we have the required infrastructure to cater for this increased use,” Minister Naughton said.
“Additionally, the Council have previously confirmed to me that they have plans to increase parking at the Station and that they are examining options at present. This will also be a vital element of the redeveloped station as it is clear to anyone using the station at present that parking is vastly insufficient,” the Minister said.
“Oranmore is a growing town with a very mobile population. We need to ensure that the residents of the area can avail of more frequent train services in a safe and comfortable manner and I am doing all that I can to ensure that happens,” she concluded.
