Alstom, has been awarded a groundbreaking contract by Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) to revolutionise rail travel and mobility on the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) network.
The project, set to enhance the rail service within the Cork metropolitan area, will feature Alstom's signalling technologies - Smartlock Computer-Based Interlocking (CBI) system and European Train Control System (ETCS).
The CACR project aims to modernise and upgrade 62km of the rail network, stretching from Mallow to Cork, Cobh, and Midleton, and will help create a high-frequency unified suburban rail service for the people of Cork.
Nick Crossfield, Alstom UK & Ireland managing director, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Irish Rail, stating, "We are excited to embark on this journey, bringing cuttingedge technology to the Cork Area Commuter Rail network. With Smartlock and ETCS, we are confident that this project will set new standards in safety, efficiency, and passenger experience, providing a strong foundation for sustainable mobility in the region.”
Jim Meade, Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive said “I commend our Cork Area Commuter Rail team in ensuring that all three elements of the CACR Programme are progressing so swiftly.
“New signalling, our new platform, and twin-tracking of Glounthaune to Midleton are set to transform the capacity of our Cork Commuter rail network, and position us well to move forward with other rail projects under the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, including the critical delivery of new stations.”
Alstom’s smartlocking system transmits provides extra coverage by transmitting train control information digitally, via the IP network. This means that signals and points can be controlled at much greater distances.
The news of the agreement follows on from the news that Alstom had entered a 10-year contract with Irish Rail to provide 750 X’trapolis commuter rail cars for Irelan’s DART network as it looks to overhaul its fleet. This includes an order of 37 Battery-electric multiple units (BEMUS) that will operate in the Greater Dublin area.
Photo Credit: Irish Rail
