This episode looks at the plans in place to develop Limerick’s rail network and explores why investing in rail is a sustainable step for the development of Irish transport.
Ireland has 2,300 kilometers of rail lines, which could be increased to 2,950 kilometers if all the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review’s recommendations are implemented.
Did you know that rail is a sustainable mode of transport?
- Rail transport produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to road or air transport. This is particularly true for electric trains as they can be powered by renewable energy. A study by Oxford University found that taking a train instead of a car for medium-length distances would cut your emissions by around 80%
- Rail has a lower environmental impact compared to roads catering for a similar transportation capacity as they require less land that results in lower rates of habitat destruction.
- Trains are one of the most energy efficient modes of transport, particularly compared to cars. They can move large volumes of freight and passengers with a relatively low energy consumption per unit of weight or distance.
- Using rail for the movement of freight or passengers takes the pressure off roads, helping to alleviate traffic congestion.
- Investing in railways contributes towards transit-oriented development, which results in denser urban living. This helps to reduce urban sprawl, leading to more sustainable land use practices and reduces the public’s need to rely on cars.
Learn more…
You can find the Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy here :
The draft of the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review proposes rail improvements including new lines and track upgrades. You can read the plan here:
https://assets.gov.ie/265178/a839ee26-16c4-407d-bd5b-327ce0e067f5.pdf
