Mott MacDonald has been appointed by Iarnród Éireann to spearhead the CONNECT rail project, a transformative national programme designed to modernise Ireland’s intercity rail network and accelerate the country’s transition to net zero.
Funded by the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility and Ireland’s National Development Plan 2021–2030, CONNECT is a cornerstone of Iarnród Éireann’s RAIL2050 strategy, aiming to deliver faster, more frequent, and sustainable rail services while cutting carbon emissions.
The project will initially focus on the Dublin–Cork and Dublin–Limerick corridors, which are critical to Ireland’s economic and social connectivity. Mott MacDonald will develop a comprehensive implementation strategy and decarbonisation roadmap, supported by technical studies and stakeholder engagement. This work will define the infrastructure, service and policy interventions needed to create a high-capacity, low-carbon rail network for future generations.
Tony O’Toole, Mott MacDonald’s Managing Director for Rail – UK and Europe, said:
“Mott MacDonald has been shaping rail networks for over a century, from pioneering the Dublin LUAS in Ireland to delivering major programmes like the Elizabeth Line in the United Kingdom and Sydney Metro in Australia. Our deep understanding of rail systems, combined with our long-standing presence in Ireland, places us perfectly to lead the CONNECT Project. This is a pivotal moment for Irish transport, and we are proud to help deliver a faster, greener, and more connected future.”
Early findings suggest journey times on key intercity routes could be reduced by up to 30 minutes through targeted infrastructure upgrades and higher line speeds of up to 200km/h. Combined with the planned introduction of a new electric fleet, these improvements could significantly shorten travel times between Dublin and Cork and Dublin and Limerick—subject to future investment.
Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Mary Considine also commented:
“The CONNECT rail project is a significant investment by the European Union, together with the Irish Government, in developing rail as the backbone of a sustainable transport system for Ireland’s citizens. CONNECT will prepare plans to support frequent services with faster travel times, whilst supporting decarbonisation, demonstrating our commitment and that of the Irish Government to meeting our climate action targets.”
By 2050, CONNECT is expected to more than double annual intercity passenger numbers, supporting regional balance, sustainable growth, and Ireland’s Climate Action Plan. The project will also contribute to the EU Green Deal by enabling a major modal shift from car to rail, reducing emissions, and improving connectivity nationwide.
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