Ireland West Airport Knock has called for the upgrade of “critically important” rail and road infrastructure.
The call comes after the publication of the Government’s new All-Island Strategic Rail Review, which this week set out an ambitious near-€40bn plan to overhaul the entire island’s rail infrastructure – aimed at making it greener, smarter, more modern, more accessible and larger.
However, with regard to airport-rail connectivity the report’s recommendations only stretched to Dublin, Shannon and both Belfast airports.
In a statement, Ireland West Airport said:“The Rail Review Report sets out 32 strategic recommendations to enhance the rail system in Ireland and Northern Ireland up to 2050Rail is the most sustainable form of transport and the extension of the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Claremorris as outlined in today’s All Ireland Rail Report is welcome.
“The Airport Board also believes that the further development of this rail corridor onwards from Claremorris for both passenger and freight to Sligo with sustainable connectivity from Charlestown into the Airport would significantly contribute to the future sustainable development of ground transportation to and from Ireland West Airport.
“The airport now serves more than 21 destinations across Europe and the UK with thousands of passengers travelling to and from key overseas markets in places such as Cologne, Milan and further afield, thanks to the connectivity now in place with Ryanair and our daily Aer Lingus Heathrow service, which opens the West to over 80 additional markets across the US, Asia and Australia.
“A strategic connection to the rail network would contribute significantly to a more integrated and sustainable form of travel for the many international visitors and travelling public using the airport from across the Region.”