Update given on reopening of two Wicklow train stations on Dublin to Rosslare line

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

Officials from the National Transport Authority (NTA) have given an update on the potential reopening of two rural Wicklow train stations.

The study took place over the last three years and considered, amongst other things, the potential passenger demand, stopping patterns, engineering feasibility and the high-level cost estimates associated with the potential reopening of the station.

The study ultimately looked to identify the merits of further progressing the project through the relevant planning stages and whether there is likely to be a reasonable economic case to support the scheme.

The pre-feasibility study is the first stage in a multi-phase process which applies to all transport infrastructure schemes handled by the NTA.

The station closed in 1964, but the large increase in residents commuting to and from Dublin each day has heightened the pressure for transport bosses to reconsider its reopening.

The findings of the pre-feasibility study have now been published which indicate that the overarching scheme objective—to deliver a cost-efficient solution that encourages greater use of sustainable transport modes in Avoca—is not fully achieved through the station’s reopening.

Although there are no significant engineering or operational barriers to reinstating the station, transport modelling suggests that both current and projected passenger demand for rail services at this location is very low.

Consequently, it has been concluded that a significant investment in the reopening of Avoca Station would not be cost effective, and it is, therefore, not proposed to reopen the station at the present time.

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A separate feasibility study published in 2021 also highlighted the benefits of reopening the nearby station in Glenealy which also closed in the mid 1960’s.

The study found if the station was to resume services for passengers it could generate potential tourism, open up Glenealy to commuters as well as benefiting potential job creation and help facilitate the need for housing.

Car parking would be included within the scheme and a possible alternative exit route could also be facilitated to allow quick access to the centre of the village.

The NTA has confirmed the reopening of Glenealy station is not being considered in the short to medium term and is subject to funding becoming available.