Disruptions to Waterford train services as works at Plunkett Station commence

Major flood prevention works to protect the rail line on the approach to Waterford are underway, as part of the Waterford North Quays Development.

The flood prevention works will aim to address the recurring flooding issue which has occurred over many years at the location.

As well as ensuring rail services are no longer impacted by flooding, both to the existing station and the new Plunkett Station from 2027, the works will allow a new electrical signalling system to replace the mechanical system which has been in place, and reinstate track capacity and routes to / from Waterford.

Iarnród Éireann is advising customers that the flood defence works will necessitate disruption to some off-peak rail services on Monday to Thursday mornings over a total of six months, from late August onwards (excluding the Christmas season).

What do the flood defence works involve?

The Flood Defence system will comprise a combination of sheet piled walls, impermeable trenches and an extensive drainage network with two associated pumping stations.

This infrastructure is to be installed from Sally Park in the west to east of the new Plunkett Station and Transport Hub, over a 1.1km length.

The flood defence wall will be installed from the River Suir, by means of two large barges and a piling rig.

Service impacts

"Line closure is required and unavoidable" a statement from Iarnród Éireann said.

Works take place from August 25 August to November 27 2025, and from January 5 to March 26 2026.

Works will take place from 08:00hrs to 14:30hrs on Mondays to Thursdays.

The following service alterations will apply:

–07:20hrs and 10:15hrs Dublin Heuston to Waterford will terminate at Kilkenny, with bus transfers from Kilkenny to Thomastown and Waterford 

–11:00hrs and 13:05hrs Waterford to Dublin Heuston will have bus transfers from Waterford and Thomastown to Kilkenny, and train from Kilkenny to Heuston 

–09:45hrs Limerick Junction to Waterford will terminate at Carrick-on-Suir with bus transfer from Carrick-on-Suir to Waterford