BOTH the Irish and Northern Ireland governments published the longawaited All-Island Rail Review as a draft on July 25, for a Strategic Environmental Assessment Consultation which will close on September 29.
The much-delayed report expected to be published in the autumn of 2022, was delayed due to the collapse of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Commissioned in June 2021, it sets out 30 recommendations to transform the current rail system, with electrification, faster speeds, improved frequency, and new routes for people and freight, particularly across the west and north of the island.
The review’s recommendations span 25 years with several proposals that could be implemented before 2030.
Some recommendations include: