Major Train Disruptions Expected in Kilkenny Due to Flood Works

URGENT UPDATE: Train users in Kilkenny face significant disruptions starting August 25, 2023, as Iarnród Éireann announces critical flood prevention works on the Waterford-Dublin rail line. Passengers traveling to and from Thomastown may experience delays and changes to their regular schedules due to these unavoidable construction efforts.

The works are part of the Waterford North Quays Development, aiming to protect the rail line from recurring flooding issues. The disruptions will occur from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM on Mondays to Thursdays, continuing until November 27, 2023, and then resuming from January 5, 2026, to March 26, 2026.

Key services impacted include the 7:20 AM and 10:15 AM trains from Dublin Heuston to Waterford, which will now terminate at Kilkenny. Passengers will need to take bus transfers from Kilkenny to both Thomastown and Waterford. Conversely, the 11:00 AM and 1:05 PM trains from Waterford to Dublin Heuston will also require bus transfers.

The flood prevention works, conducted by Waterford City and County Council (WCCC) and its contractors, are essential for maintaining rail service resilience in the face of climate change. These measures aim to safeguard the new Plunkett Station, set to open in 2027, by preventing flooding that has historically plagued this railway corridor.

“Iarnród Éireann has worked closely with WCCC and BAM, the main contractor, to minimize disruption,” a spokesperson stated. “However, due to the nature of the works, which involve lifting and placing piles close to the railway, a line closure is unavoidable.”

These flood defense efforts are critical not just for the current rail services but also for enhancing the overall infrastructure in the region. The project is funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority, reflecting its importance to public safety and transportation efficiency.

Passengers are urged to plan accordingly and expect disruptions during off-peak hours, particularly on Monday to Thursday mornings. The timetable adjustments are necessary to balance essential construction work with the demand for rail services.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation, and share this with fellow commuters to keep everyone informed.