Western Rail Corridor 'on track to open in 2031' with Mayo to Galway link
Mayo Senator Mark Duffy, member of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport, has received a detailed briefing from Irish Rail on the ongoing progress of the Western Rail Corridor project.
Irish Rail confirmed to Senator Duffy that the project which will link passengers in Mayo with Galway and the western sea board is advancing into the early design development stage.
Procurement is scheduled to commence by the end of 2026 through an accelerated process, under which a single contractor will be engaged for both the detailed design and delivery of the scheme.
Subject to the necessary support from the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the Department of Transport, the contractor is expected to be appointed by summer 2027.
If the project secures approval by the end of 2027, Irish Rail has outlined a pathway for main construction works to begin in 2028, with completion targeted for 2031.
Senator Duffy, a strong campaigner for the project which would reconnect Mayo and Galway by rail, welcomed the updated timeline and sought further clarity on key design elements.
“The Western Rail Corridor is vital for the economic and social development of Mayo and the entire west of Ireland,” said Senator Duffy.
“I am encouraged by the accelerated procurement approach and the potential timeline which could see construction start in 2028 and the project completed by 2031.
"However, I have sought specific clarity on the design of the scheme, particularly regarding the number and nature of road crossings along the route in particular along the N17 at Ballindine.
“Investment in public transport must not come at the expense of other critical transport corridors.
"I have asked Irish Rail to develop under-road or over-road designs at Ballindine and to ensure that the project does not negatively impact road traffic on the N17 at Ballindine and Tuam. We need integrated infrastructure planning that works for all users – rail and road,” he added.
Senator Duffy thanked Irish Rail for the briefing and confirmed he will continue to engage with Irish Rail, the NTA, and the Department of Transport to ensure the project delivers maximum benefit for the west.