Irish Rail called out as ‘weekend rail closures become a disruptive feature of life' in Wicklow

Irish Independent

11-07-2025

Councillor Stephen Stokes acknowledged that there is a lot of important engineering work being carried out, but he believes that sweeping weekend disruptions need to be reviewed.
'There is growing fatigue in the community,' Cllr Stokes said. 'People have been patient, but they are increasingly wary. Weekend rail closures have become a disruptive feature of life."
The Greystones councillor has questioned the timing of the July 12 closure, which falls squarely within the high summer period, traditionally busy with tourists, major concerts, sporting fixtures and family events.
'From speaking to local people, it is not common practice to carry out rail closures in July or August. We don't want this to become normal. This is especially important in the summer months, when north Wicklow should be thriving from tourism, not struggling with transport access. These are key months of the year."
Cllr Stokes has also enquired about whether future work can be carried out at night, to limit daytime disruptions.
'I fully support the need for investment into rail infrastructure. However, I wonder if less disruptive strategies can be explored. If the works are essential during the daytime, the public deserve to know why they must happen. Irish Rail are working hard to provide a vital service to a growing population. The community wants to be partners for prosperity, which includes being kept informed."
The impact on local business was also raised, and Cllr Stokes believes that when trains are not running, the knock-on effect to local businesses is immediate and severe. Cafés, restaurants, shops and event spaces lose out on footfall and Greystones is particularly vulnerable during rail closures due to the absence of direct bus services to Dublin, apart from limited weekday express routes.
'In recent years, businesses across north Wicklow have had to contend with the Covid-19 pandemic, and the closure of the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, another key tourism draw. As such, the Dart is a lifeline. In Greystones, when the rail service is down, it's not like there are seamless alternatives. There is no direct bus connection to Dublin. Many potential visitors simply choose not to come. Because nothing beats a direct service.
'People understand that work needs to happen, but they want to feel included and informed. If Irish Rail can clearly explain the nature and necessity of the work, it would go a long way towards improving public cooperation. Right now, it feels like these closures are just imposed, without much explanation.'
Cllr Stokes said a long-term strategy is needed to protect the economic and social fabric of north Wicklow.
'Reliable transport is not just about getting from A to B – it's about protecting livelihoods, supporting local enterprise, and ensuring our towns continue to thrive. Moving forward we need to ensure that everyone is on board.'