21 August 2026
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
New car parking, EV charging, accessible spaces and improved pedestrian links will strengthen Millstreet’s public transport hub
Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD has welcomed the commencement of works at Millstreet Train Station, which will significantly improve parking, accessibility and connectivity at the station.
The works, being progressed by Iarnród Éireann, include the partial demolition and relocation of stone walls at the entrance to the station to widen the existing vehicular access. The project will also see the extension of the existing car park, creating 66 new car parking spaces, including five accessible parking bays, as well as seven EV charging stations.
In addition, 10 new bicycle parking spaces will be provided as part of the works.
Deputy O’Shea said the investment represented an important step forward for public transport connectivity in Millstreet and the wider Cork North-West area.
“I am very pleased to see these works getting underway at Millstreet Train Station. The additional parking capacity, accessible spaces, EV charging points and bicycle parking will make a real difference for people using the station.
“However, what I believe is particularly important is ensuring that Millstreet Train Station is properly connected with the town and with other public transport services.
“The plans include a new pedestrian crossing point linking the bus interchange area with the train station. It is vital that these facilities are seamlessly connected and properly utilised so that passengers can move easily between different modes of transport.
“This will help better connect the people of Millstreet and the wider Cork North West area with the rest of Ireland, making it easier for people to complete their journeys without long waits or unnecessary additional travel.
“A properly integrated transport hub also improves accessibility for people who rely on public transport, including those who do not have access to a private vehicle and people with mobility challenges.
“There are also wider benefits for Millstreet itself. Making it easier for people to access the town by public transport can bring increased footfall for local shops, businesses and services.
“Strong public transport infrastructure is an important driver of economic and social development in rural communities. These works will help strengthen Millstreet’s position as an important transport hub and support the continued development of the town and the wider Cork North West region.”»
Deputy O’Shea also highlighted the wider improvements being delivered along the rail corridor between Mallow and Tralee via Killarney.
“It is also important to recognise that these improvements at Millstreet are part of a wider programme of investment in our railway infrastructure.
“Accessibility works have already been completed at nearby Banteer and Rathmore railway stations, which is very welcome. When combined with the improvements now underway at Millstreet, these works will make a real difference to people travelling along the Mallow to Tralee route via Killarney.
“Improving accessibility at stations along this route benefits everyone, but particularly older people, people with disabilities, families with young children and anyone who may have difficulty accessing rail services.
“We need to continue investing in our rural rail network and ensuring that stations are accessible, safe and properly connected to surrounding communities. These improvements will help make rail travel a more attractive and practical option for people across Cork North West and the wider region.”
Cllr Gerry Healy, who represents the Millstreet area, welcomed the commencement of the works and said the improvements would be of significant benefit locally.
“It is very welcome to see these works commencing at Millstreet Train Station. This is an important investment in the station and in the wider transport infrastructure serving the town and surrounding communities.
“The additional car parking spaces, accessible bays, EV charging facilities and bicycle parking will make the station much more convenient for commuters and visitors. The improved access and pedestrian connection with the bus interchange are also particularly important.
“For Millstreet to continue to grow and develop, we need strong and reliable public transport connections. These works will make it easier for people to use the train, while also helping to better integrate rail and bus services.
“I want to acknowledge the work of Deputy John Paul O’Shea and all those involved in progressing this project. As a local representative, I am delighted to see it moving forward and I look forward to seeing the benefits for the people of Millstreet and the surrounding area.”
Deputy O’Shea also acknowledged the work of all local representatives and Iarnród Éireann in progressing the project.
“I want to acknowledge the work that has gone into bringing this project forward and I look forward to seeing the benefits of these improvements for commuters, residents and visitors to Millstreet in the months and years ahead,” Deputy O’Shea concluded.