Cork Cobh Closure Abandoned

[Mark Gleeson]

Cork to Cobh line: improvement works, October to November 2008 by Corporate Communications

Iarnród Éireann is to undertake major works on the Cork-Cobh commuter line this October and November, to modernise station platforms and other facilities along the route.

As a result, Cork-Cobh rail services will be suspended from 3rd October 2008 to 10th November 2008 to facilitate this important work. Substitute bus services will be provided on the line during this time.

The works on the Cork-Cobh line include:

- the upgrading of 11 platforms at 6 stations along the route, which will improve accessibility of rail services for mobility-impaired customers

- laying of cable ducting for signalling, electrical and telecoms

- facilitating construction of a new overbridge at Woodhill, including a retaining wall at the approach to the bridge

- coastal defence and landslip protection works at key sites

- installation of a watermain for Cork County Council

- signalling adjustments to facilitate the reopening of the Cork-Midleton line



Iarnród Éireann apologise to customers for the inconvenience these works will cause. However, by completing these works in a short timeframe, we can ensure that a lengthy period of intermittent service disruption is avoided, and that improvements to platforms and other important infrastructure work can be delivered.

The works represent an investment of €5 million in the route, and are part of a wider package of investment in Cork’s commuter rail network.

Work is well advanced on the reopening of Glounthaune-Midleton line, which will be completed in 2009. In addition, new stations are planned at Dunkettle, Kilbarry and Blarney.

The works on the Cork-Cobh line will ensure the height levels on platforms are raised to ease access to modern commuter railcars on the route, improving accessibility for all customers, but particularly the mobility-impaired.

Details of substitute bus services for the duration of the works will be confirmed shortly.

Of course there was nothing to be seen in Cork or Cobh about this yesterday. This has been in planning for several months, August was originally the plan until someone figured out August was in fact the busiest month on the line!

No works on the ground to be seen in preparation