'It takes two hours to get from Kinnegad to Dublin'

It is taking two hours to get from Kinnegad to Dublin in rush hour, according to Cllr Denis Leonard, who has again called for the re-opening of Killucan train station.

He is glad the feasibility study has been given the go-ahead, but is anxious that matters proceed quickly.

He was speaking at a meeting of the Planning and Transportation SPC, where he was told that a consultant to carry out the feasibility study has to be appointed and that “takes time”.

Barry Kehoe, director of services, said he heard what Cllr Leonard was saying about traffic on the M4 and the benefits of a rail service.

He suggested that the bus service was a useful alternative.

Mr Kehoe expects that the consultant and Irish Rail will liaise with the council and local groups. He said the council would keep members informed.

A business study is also to be carried out, and the council will do whatever needs to be done, he added.