by Marie Madden, Galway Independent ([email protected])
A new rail station in Oranmore is to open in mid-July, Irish Rail has confirmed.
A spokesperson for the company told the Galway Independent this week that station works are “progressing well”, with the project “about 75%” complete at this stage.
The new station is located beside the level crossing at Gurrane and will include a 174 metre platform, with services from both the Limerick and Dublin trains.
A 140 space car park is also being constructed at the site by Galway County Council, who will own and operate the parking facility.
Barry Kenny of Irish Rail said the company was hoping that the new station would boost commuter numbers in the West.
“We are looking forward to an increase in commuter numbers as a result of the station, which will have a significant catchment area, particularly with the inclusion of the car park, and allow park and ride commuters to get off the road before hitting Galway’s city centre road congestion,” he said.
The announcement has been welcomed by Galway City Councillor Jim Cuddy, who said the service would be up and running before the Galway Races.
“This new railway station will be welcomed by business and the tourism industry and will increase accessibility and provide a viable alternative for commuters, all of which is good for the local economy in Galway, ” he said.
