Watch: Video showing the full proposed Cork LUAS network

The proposed Cork LUAS network has been a long time coming, with the first shovels not expected to hit the ground until 2031 and completion not anticipated until 2036. Despite the long timeline, the project offers hope for better public transportation in Cork, addressing the current inadequacies of the bus network in the city.

Recent data on Cork City’s buses revealed that the service is even worse than passengers initially believed. Reports from December 2023 indicated that Bus Eireann drivers were instructed to pass by passengers at stops in order to adhere to the published schedule. This revelation underscores the urgent need for improved public transportation options in Cork.

The Cork Luas project, initially proposed by the Green Party 20 years ago, has now been given the green light with a preferred network map. This development signals a potential solution to Cork’s public transport woes, offering a more reliable and efficient way for residents to navigate the city.

The newly released video showcasing the visualisation of the network highlights the key changes in the preferred route. Notable adjustments include a shift in the northern end of Melbourn Road, an extension to Flynn’s Road in Ballincollig, and alterations to the Station Road section. The route will connect key areas of Cork city, such as MTU, CUH, UCC, Patrick’s Street, Kent Station, and Páirc Uí Chaoimh, providing convenient access for commuters and locals.

Compulsory Purchase Orders will play a role in advancing the project, with approximately 350 properties expected to be affected by the preferred route. It is estimated that seven compulsory purchase orders will be required to accommodate the plans, with efforts to minimize the impact on clubs, schools, and the CUH. The goal is to maximize the benefits of the final route for both commuters and the community at large.

Overall, the Cork LUAS network holds promise for transforming public transportation in Cork and improving the overall quality of life for residents. While the project’s completion is still several years away, the envisioned network offers a glimpse of a more efficient and reliable transportation system for the city. Cork’s residents can look forward to a future where getting around the city is easier, faster, and more sustainable with the implementation of the Cork LUAS network.