Iarnród Éireann plans new Dunkettle railway station for Cork

Planning Lodged for Dunkettle Railway Station

Iarnród Éireann has officially lodged a planning application for a brand-new train station at Dunkettle, following closely on the heels of an application for an additional station in Blackpool, Cork. These two sites represent the initial phase of eight new stations planned under the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme (CACR), a project designed to revolutionise rail services across the region.

The ambitious programme aims to achieve a ten-minute frequency on all three lines of the commuter network. Dunkettle Station is specifically designed as a major park and ride facility, strategically positioned near the Dunkettle Interchange. Its location offers seamless access to critical arteries like the M8 and N25, effectively easing congestion at this vital intersection by intercepting traffic before it reaches the city centre.

Strategic Enhancements for the Cork Network

The proposed developments are crucial for enhancing the network's capacity and resilience. Accelerating the delivery of stations at Blackpool and Dunkettle is essential to support projected passenger numbers and promote rail transport as a viable alternative to private car usage. Both new sites will be constructed on existing Iarnród Éireann land, allowing for accelerated development and additional rail capacity to the north and east of the city, ahead of the wider programme's full rollout.

Construction Timeline

Construction work is expected to commence in 2027 and may take up to two years to complete, subject to final planning approvals and funding allocation. Iarnród Éireann is also preparing a Railway Order application to An Coimisiún Pleanála later this year for the electrification of the Cork network, which will include six additional stations and a new depot for the modern fleet.

About the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR)

The CACR is a cornerstone of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) 2040. Developed by the National Transport Authority in partnership with Cork City and County Councils and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, this transformative investment will significantly enhance the heavy rail network connecting Mallow, Cork, Cobh, and Midleton.

By designating these projects as critical infrastructure, Iarnród Éireann is empowered to accelerate delivery, bringing a high-capacity, high-frequency, and sustainable rail network to the city more rapidly. The programme supports the transition to a low-carbon society less reliant on private vehicles.

Phase 1 Status

Works on Phase 1 are well advanced. In 2025, the new €23 million Platform 6 at Kent Station opened, funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). This marked the first element of a programme potentially worth over €1 billion. Phase 1 also incorporates the RRF-funded twin-track extension from Glounthaune to Midleton, set for completion in 2026, along with signalling and communications upgrades scheduled for 2027.

Phase 2 Outlook

Phase 2 includes six new stations, network electrification, and a new fleet maintenance depot. Following its second round of non-statutory public consultation in June 2026, the Railway Order application is expected by the end of that year. This phase aims to alleviate road congestion and build a more connected, efficient, and safe rail network.

Proposed New Blackpool Station

The proposed new Blackpool Station, entering planning in April 2026, will provide a sustainable transport option for existing and future communities while supporting the regeneration of the wider area. Located near the historic station and bounded by Dublin Hill Road and Redforge Road, it will complement established rail services to the east of the city.