Call to re-open small Kildare train station not used for decades

Sinn Féin TD for Kildare South, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh, has called on the Government to commission a feasibility study into reopening Kildangan Train Station in a bid to tackle growing transport and parking pressures across South Kildare.

Raising the matter directly with the Tánaiste in the Dáil, Deputy Ní Raghallaigh said the reopening of the station would provide much-needed transport capacity for one of the fastest-growing areas in the State and reduce pressure on overcrowded parking infrastructure in Kildare Town.

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh said: “Kildangan Train Station has lain dormant since 1963, but the case for reopening it is becoming stronger every year.

“The population of Kildangan has doubled over the last decade and is set to grow further following recent rezoning and development. Alongside this, there is a large rural hinterland whose residents would use rail services from Kildangan if adequate parking facilities were available.

READ NEXT: Kildare parents among highest in the State appealing school admission refusals

“At present, many commuters are travelling into Kildare Town to access rail services, placing huge pressure on parking and existing infrastructure there. We urgently need additional transport capacity to serve our growing communities.

“Reopening Kildangan Station is a practical and constructive solution that would benefit commuters right across South Kildare.”

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh pointed to existing precedents for rail investment in growing communities, including Adamstown Train Station, which was reopened after major housing expansion, as well as Dromod Station in Leitrim, which serves a population of approximately 500 people while accommodating eight daily train stops.

She also referenced a 2023 Environs study which examined the reopening of Kilucan Railway Station as evidence that similar proposals are already being actively considered elsewhere.

“We need Government to start planning ahead instead of constantly reacting after infrastructure has already reached breaking point.

“I have asked the Tánaiste to raise this proposal directly with the Minister for Transport and with Irish Rail, and to commission a feasibility study into reopening the station in the medium term.”

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh added that she is working closely with Sinn Féin Councillor Noel Connolly on the proposal, with Cllr Connolly set to bring a motion before the Newbridge-Kildare Municipal District in the coming weeks.

“This is an innovative and achievable proposal that could make a real difference for commuters, families and communities across South Kildare, and I hope to see it progressed further.”