WDC Welcomes Rail Review but Disappointed at Omission of Western Rail Corridor

WDC Welcomes Rail Review but Disappointed at Omission of Western Rail Corridor

galway.net , 8 Apr 2003

The Western Development Commission (WDC) has welcomed the publication of the Strategic Rail Review published today which represents a strategic framework for railway development in the 21st Century.

The WDC, in its submission to this Review, highlighted the need for urgent investment in rail infrastructure. The WDC agrees with the Review’s conclusion in relation to investment on the inter-urban routes between Dublin and the West – the need for improved rolling stock, better timetabling, and additional improved services. Implementation of the findings of the Review in relation to the improvement of basic services is critical.

The WDC has expressed disappointment that the Western Rail Corridor is not in the priority list for the Recommended Investment Strategy. CEO Lisa McAllister said: “It is regrettable, in light of the National Spatial Strategy, that the Western Rail Corridor is not included in this list.” The WDC has argued that much more serious consideration should be given to the Western Rail Corridor, highlighting the opportunity to improve access within and between the regions, as advocated in the National Spatial Strategy.

The consultants’ Recommended Investment Strategy sets out the costs for the improvement and extension of passenger services, which require public funding. It is important that any investment strategy delivers a substantial improvement in services to the Western Region where existing services are well below the standards taken for granted in the rest of Europe.

The WDC point out that it is a comprehensive report and will require detailed examination and consideration.

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