Rail vs. Recreation: Iarnród Éireann Opposes Proposed Rosslare Greenway Route
The ambition to connect Rosslare Harbour to Rosslare Strand via a dedicated greenway has hit a significant roadblock. Iarnród Éireann, the national rail operator, has expressed strong opposition to the current preferred route, citing the critical need to protect land reserved for national transport infrastructure.
The conflict centers on a clash between regional tourism goals and strategic national interests. Even as Wexford County Council (WCC) envisions a recreational corridor to boost local tourism, the rail operator argues that the proposed path encroaches on land essential for the future of Irish rail and port operations.
The Core of the Dispute: Statutory Functions and Strategic Land
Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, has outlined the operator’s opposition in the strongest possible terms
. The primary concern is that the preferred route, presented during a public consultation on March 4, utilizes land owned by Iarnród Éireann and CIÉ.
According to a submission made to Wexford County Council, these lands are not merely vacant plots but are designated for critical statutory transport purposes. These include:
- Rail Infrastructure: Ensuring the continued operation and future development of the rail network.
- Port Expansion: Supporting the strategic expansion of Rosslare Europort, a vital component of Ireland’s national port infrastructure.
- Existing CPOs: Much of the land in question is already subject to a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the proposed Rosslare Europort Access Road (N25 Link Road), a project managed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).
“These lands are held for established and planned statutory functions of national importance and any additional acquisition would directly interfere with those functions and the broader public interest they serve.” Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann
The Proposed Route and Local Impact
The current plan involves a route starting at the Rosslare Strand Train Station, extending southeast and terminating at the junction of Mary’s Terrace and the N25 in Rosslare Harbour. The goal is to integrate this path with existing and planned greenways and blueways, creating a recreational network for both residents and visitors.
However, Iarnród Éireann warns that any further sterilisation or loss of these lands
would jeopardize the ability of the operator and Rosslare Europort to deliver essential infrastructure. Considine has requested that the council identify alternative alignments that completely avoid lands owned by Iarnród Éireann/CIÉ.
Looking Ahead: Is a Compromise Possible?
Despite the stark opposition from the rail operator, Wexford County Council remains optimistic. A spokesperson for the council stated they believe a solution has been found that is mutually acceptable to both parties
.
The council intends to continue detailed discussions with Iarnród Éireann and other affected landowners as the project moves into the preliminary design phase. The specific footprint of the greenway is expected to be confirmed during Phase 3 of the project, with final design work anticipated to commence in Q3 of this year.
Key Takeaways: Rosslare Greenway Conflict
| Stakeholder | Position | Primary Argument |
|---|---|---|
| Iarnród Éireann | Strong Opposition | Land is required for statutory rail and port functions; current route interferes with N25 Link Road plans. |
| Wexford County Council | Supportive/Seeking Solution | Aims to create recreational pathways to boost tourism and local connectivity. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposed Rosslare greenway?
It is a planned recreational pathway connecting Rosslare Strand Train Station to the N25 in Rosslare Harbour, designed to integrate with other local greenways and blueways.
Why is Iarnród Éireann opposing the route?
The operator claims the route uses land essential for the strategic expansion of Rosslare Europort and the maintenance of national rail infrastructure, and that it conflicts with existing CPOs for the N25 Link Road.
When will the final design be decided?
Wexford County Council anticipates commencing the final design of the greenway in the third quarter (Q3) of the current year.