Western Rail Corridor secured as targeted priority in new transport sectoral plan
“A historic breakthrough for balanced regional development in Mayo and the west”
The Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, has confirmed that the Western Rail Corridor (Claremorris–Athenry, via Tuam) has been secured as a targeted priority project in the Department of Transport’s Sectoral Plan for the revised National Development Plan.
“The Western Rail Corridor is now firmly established as a targeted priority in this plan,” Minister Canney said.
“This is the outcome of consistent, detailed work to ensure the West is fully represented. The project is scheduled for delivery by 2030, and enabling works can commence shortly."
Extending the Western Rail Corridor northwards to Sligo is also under consideration.
Under the plan, a series of new track passing loops are also included, covering the Sligo line, Westport/Ballina, Limerick to Waterford and the Dublin-Belfast Northern line, which will enable higher-frequency services.
A new platform at Limerick Junction will assist with train journeys between Galway/Ennis and Waterford. There are also additional platforms for stations on Galway and Sligo routes to help with rail resilience and services.
Minister Canney said the publication of the plan represents “a clear, strategic shift” towards delivering major transport investments for the west.
“The Western Rail Corridor is prioritised, scheduled and ready to progress. The work continues but the foundations are now in place, and the west is firmly on the map.”
In a statement, Mayo Minister of State Alan Dillon described the news as “a historic breakthrough for balanced regional development in Mayo and the west.”
He elaborated: "The plan confirms that enabling and clearance works on the Western Rail Corridor will begin next year, with full delivery targeted by 2030.
"This will reopen the long-closed Athenry–Claremorris line, restoring a direct rail link from Mayo to Galway for the first time in decades.
“This is a momentous day for Mayo. Phase 1 of the Western Rail Corridor is now funded in the National Development Plan, with works starting next year.
"Delivery by 2030 will transform how our region connects, commutes, studies and grows.”
He continued: “Since entering politics, I have fought relentlessly for the Western Rail Corridor in the Dáil and Oireachtas.
"Securing its inclusion in the NDP is proof that persistence pays off and now my priority as Minister is to drive this project beyond planning and into construction. Delivery must be our priority.”
Minister Dillon also acknowledged the role of the wider campaign.
“I want to sincerely thank West on Track, Mayo County Council members, Oireachtas colleagues and every advocate who kept this project alive. This is their victory as much as ours.”
Minister Dillon emphasised that reopening the Athenry–Claremorris line will deliver major benefits:
• Direct rail link: Mayo to Galway restored
• Better access for students, hospital patients and daily commuters
• Stronger regional connections to Limerick, Cork and the south
• Boost to tourism, business, investment and jobs
• Lower congestion and cleaner, more sustainable travel options
The inclusion of the Western Rail Corridor “places Mayo at the centre of Ireland’s rail future,” he said.
Additional Key Infrastructure Commitments for Mayo (NDP 2026–2030)
Alongside the Western Rail Corridor breakthrough, the updated NDP Sectoral Implementation Plan includes significant transport investments for Mayo:
N26/N59 Road Improvements
Critical upgrades to routes serving Ballina and north Mayo to support business, tourism and community access.
N17 Knock to Scramogue
A major project strengthening the Atlantic Economic Corridor, reducing congestion and improving links between the West, Midlands and Dublin.
R332 Foxhall to Kilmaine Upgrade
Safety and alignment improvements, including dangerous bend removal and improved junctions, supporting school transport and local economic development.
Active Travel & Greenways
Expansion of walking and cycling paths, including Great Western Greenway enhancements and Safe Routes to School projects.
Road Safety & Village Enhancements
Traffic calming, pedestrian crossings and public realm improvements throughout Mayo’s towns and villages.
Minister Dillon concluded: “This investment is a vote of confidence in Mayo and the west. With the Western Rail Corridor moving ahead, road upgrades advancing and active travel expanding, we are delivering safer, stronger and more connected communities.
“These projects will improve daily life for residents and enhance Mayo’s appeal for investment, tourism and future growth.”
Deputy Paul Lawless also welcomed today’s long-awaited green light for the Athenry-to-Claremorris section of the Western Rail Corridor, describing it as “a breakthrough moment for balanced regional development and long-overdue recognition of the west’s potential.”
“I want to sincerely commend the West on Track campaign group, and particularly Colman Ó Raghallaigh, for driving this campaign.
"I also want to acknowledge the work of many elected representatives in the Oireachtas and Mayo County Council, and all those who campaigned tirelessly for this project.
"I know that there have been some independent ministers from the west of Ireland who have lobbied hard for this behind the scenes, and credit where credit is due to them.
“For years, the Western Rail Corridor has been treated as a 'half-forgotten daydream' by successive governments - a political carrot dangled before the people of the west.
"The confirmation of funding for the Claremorris to Athenry section, with works promised to begin within the next 18 months, is a long-overdue and essential first step.
"This segment will connect Ballina, Westport and Castlebar to Galway, Limerick, Cork and Waterford, creating a vital economic and social spine for the region.”
Deputy Lawless highlighted the broader significance of the project, which was strongly recommended in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review.
“The re-establishment of the WRC will be a catalyst for economic growth and a necessity for balanced regional development. It will provide a sustainable transport alternative, linking major towns and making the West a more viable place for young families to live and work.”
Deputy Lawless concluded: “We must also not forget the Claremorris to Sligo line. We need a commitment that the full potential of the Western Rail Corridor will be realised. The people of Mayo and the west have fought tirelessly for this."