Mallow is set to play a key role in the future expansion of Cork’s rail network after the Government designated the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme as Critical Infrastructure.
The announcement has been welcomed by Iarnród Éireann, with the designation expected to accelerate the delivery of a major investment programme designed to increase capacity, frequency and connectivity across the Cork commuter rail network, including the route linking Mallow with Cork city and surrounding communities.
Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Mary Considine said the decision would allow the organisation to progress the delivery of a “transformative package” of projects more quickly, including new stations and improvements to create a higher-capacity and more sustainable rail service for communities across the region.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) programme forms part of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040 and aims to enhance connections between Mallow, Cork, Cobh and Midleton through increased train frequency, improved infrastructure and additional services.
For Mallow, the programme represents a significant investment in the future of rail connectivity, strengthening links between North Cork and Cork city while supporting more sustainable transport options for commuters, students and businesses.
The first phase of the programme is already progressing, with the opening of the new €23 million Platform 6 at Kent Station in 2025 marking the first completed element of the wider project.
Further works include the Glounthaune to Midleton twin-track project, due for completion in 2026, and upgrades to signalling and communications systems in the Cork area, expected to be completed in 2027.
These improvements will provide additional capacity across Cork’s three commuter rail corridors, including the Mallow line, allowing for increased service frequency in the future.
The second phase of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme includes plans for six additional stations, electrification of parts of the network and a new fleet maintenance depot.
The project completed its second round of public consultation in June 2026, with a Railway Order application expected before the end of the year.
Once delivered, the programme is expected to improve public transport connections, reduce pressure on roads and create a more integrated rail network serving communities throughout Cork, including Mallow.
