Project Summary
The Kildare Route Project involved upgrading 5.5 km of existing two-track railway to a four-track configuration on the main Galway to Dublin line. Coffey was appointed as Main Contractor and Principal Contractor for Contract 3, delivering all associated civil engineering and building works, including new bridges, platforms, a station refurbishment, and enhanced transport links. The works were carried out in a live railway and urban environment, maintaining full rail operations and public access throughout.
Project Description
The project extended from Stacumny to Hazelhatch and required the widening of embankments and bridges to accommodate two additional tracks on the north side of the existing railway line. Coffey delivered complex works in close proximity to live rail services, including the demolition and replacement of overbridges, construction of new pedestrian bridges, and the refurbishment and extension of the listed Hazelhatch Station building.
The works also included four new platforms, a 900-metre link road with a new road bridge, a 450-space park and ride facility, and extensive trackside civil works such as retaining walls, drainage systems, and landscaping. A key challenge was completing critical construction tasks within tightly controlled night-time possession windows while ensuring the safety of passengers, staff, and the public.
Scope of Works
The works included:
- Widening of the rail corridor to create a four-track arrangement from chainage 17000m to 19240m, tapering back to two tracks.
- Refurbishment and extension of the listed Hazelhatch Station building.
- Construction of four new platforms with lighting, lifts, and landscaping.
- Demolition of overbridges Nos. 21, 23, and 25 and replacement with new structures.
- Installation of two new pedestrian bridges, one with lifts and staircases.
- Construction of a 450-space park and ride facility.
- Delivery of a 900-metre link road, new roundabout, and road bridge over the railway.
- Earthworks, retaining wall construction, drainage installation, and landscaping.
- Extension of existing underbridges and culverts.
- Construction of trackside maintenance roads and new boundary treatments.
Technical Highlights
- Precast prestressed concrete and reinforced concrete bridge construction.
- Steel pedestrian bridge fabrication and overnight crane installation.
- Conservation-standard refurbishment of a listed station building.
- Phased delivery of park and ride facility to maintain parking availability.
- Works planned and executed within limited night-time possession windows.
Added Value
- Successfully widened an active railway line from two to four tracks with minimal disruption.
- Maintained full station operation and public access throughout the works.
- Coordinated closely with Irish Rail and Network Rail to manage safety and logistics.
- Recognised with the 2009 London Underground Accessibility Award at the UK National Railway Heritage Awards.
Environmental, Safety or Community
- Continuous safety maintained through barriers, defined access routes, and supervised deliveries.
- Traffic management planned with local authorities to minimise disruption.
- Landscaping works including tree, shrub, and grass planting along embankments.
- Preservation of the historic character of Hazelhatch Station through conservation methods.
To learn more about Coffey’s work in active travel and urban infrastructure, or to discuss future opportunities, please contact us at 091 844356 or info@coffeygroup.com.
