A study to strategically review the rail network on the island of Ireland

Tender description

The Department of Transport wishes to appoint a technical consultant to develop high-level design and operational proposals for the Belfast-Dublin-Limerick-Cork TEN-T Core Rail Network, considering a range of Service Levels (Conventional, Higher- and High-Speed Rail). As detailed in this RfT, the proposals shall also consider the TEN-T Comprehensive Rail Network where appropriate. The technical consultant will examine the role of improved line speeds (including the role of High-Speed Rail) on the inter-urban rail network in supporting Compact Growth (NSO 1), Enhanced Regional Accessibility (NSO 2), Sustainable Mobility (NSO 4), High Quality International Connectivity (NSO 6) and the Transition to a Low Carbon and Climate Resilient Society (NSO 8) as outlined in the National Planning Framework. In line with the commitments in Project Ireland 2040 and the New Decade, New Approach agreement made by the Irish and British Governments, the Assignment will take a strategic view on the potential of High/Higher Speed Rail to support the relevant National Strategic Outcomes of the National Planning Framework through developing high-level design and operational proposals for the Belfast-Dublin-Limerick-Cork TEN-T Core Rail Network (the “Core Corridor”), considering a range of Service Levels (Conventional, Higher- and High-Speed Rail). The Assignment shall also consider the TEN-T Comprehensive Rail Network where appropriate. The Assignment will consider possible future investment options in infrastructure, railway operations and planning with a view to encouraging modal-shift and addressing relevant Climate Change challenges, whilst considering cost effectiveness, financial sustainability and any implications for balanced regional development.