New rail track and platform arrive at Oranmore station

Next Phase of Work Commences on Oranmore Station Enhancements

Iarnród Éireann has officially confirmed the start of the second phase of construction works at Oranmore Station in County Galway. Following the successful completion of initial enabling works and an underpass installation in 2025, the project now enters its main construction stage.

This critical upgrade involves laying a new one-kilometre section of track and extending the platform by 185 metres. Currently, the Athenry to Galway line operates as a single track with no passing loops, creating significant bottlenecks. The new infrastructure will facilitate a doubling of services, increasing frequency to every thirty minutes in both directions.

The new platform, situated to the north of the existing facility, will be accessed via the dedicated underpass which also serves as a cycle route. To ensure full accessibility for all passengers, the station will feature stairs, lifts, and access ramps. Additional amenities include passenger shelters, help points, information signage, lighting, CCTV surveillance, and seating.

The works are being delivered by Triur Construction, with construction set to commence in May 2026 and conclude by late 2027.

Transformative Impact for Passengers

Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, stated that the project is transformational for local communities. "Delivery of this project will be transformational for passengers in Oranmore, providing the infrastructure to support more services and more capacity," she said. She emphasised that a service every thirty minutes will encourage people to choose rail over private cars, realising the vision of rail as the backbone of sustainable transport in Ireland.

Relieving Regional Bottlenecks

Minister of State Seán Canney expressed delight at the progress, noting that the single-track line is a major bottleneck for the region. He highlighted that the extra platform and track will benefit existing services on the Galway to Dublin and Galway to Limerick lines. This development complements recent upgrades at Galway Ceannt Station and aligns with the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, which plans to reinstate the Western Rail Corridor between Athenry and Claremorris in coming years.

Supporting Future Growth

Minister for Housing James Browne described the investment as a significant step forward for the local community. He noted that enhancing rail capacity creates conditions for new housing and vibrant, sustainable communities. Anne Shaw of the National Transport Authority added that improved connectivity will make public transport a more convenient choice, supporting well-planned growth in the Galway metropolitan area.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, called the project an exemplar of Transport Orientated Development (TOD). He remarked that the surrounding lands at Garraun are now equipped with state-of-the-art public transport infrastructure to support future housing delivery.