25/01/2022
The Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) has responded to a consultation on the islands rail network, noting that the promotion of public transport over private car use has the potential to remove two million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere every year. Architects are, therefore, calling for the operation of any amended or re-opened tracks to be “as environmentally friendly as possible”.
The All Island Strategic Rail Review was launched jointly by Nichola Mallon MLA, Minister for Infrastructure and Eamon Ryan T.D., Minister for Transport with the aims of “improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities (including the potential for high-/higher speed), enhancing regional accessibility and supporting balanced regional development and considering rail connectivity to international gateways – sea and air ports, which will include examining the role of rail freight”.
RSUA’s response also noted that improvements to the rail network would not just benefit users but will have a positive impact on other aspects of public policy such as spatial planning. RSUA stressed that it was important that intercity high-speed services were offered in order to swing the balance away from the private car. Productivity whilst onboard trains through ample space, desks, mobile signal and high speed/reliable broadband is also essential.
You can read the full response below.
