The Hub – Transport Advisory partnered with PwC to support Irish Rail and Translink in developing the investment business case for new rolling stock for the Enterprise cross-border rail service between Belfast and Dublin. We built a bespoke demand and revenue model, which included a crowding module to simulate the impact of observed peak conditions, to generate long-term forecasts on this important route.

Following government approval, Irish Rail have selected Stadler to supply eight new trainsets, marking a milestone in delivering the ambitious growth plans set out in the business case. The introduction of modern rolling stock and a faster, hourly service connecting the two cities will bring significant economic and environmental benefits while greatly improving the passenger experience. The first trainsets are expected to arrive for testing in 2028, with full entry into service by 2030, enabling the withdrawal of the existing Class 201 locomotives and De Dietrich coaches.

Yasha Vojdani, Director commented: “We are proud to have supported Irish Rail in making the case for this critical investment in important cross-boarder services in Ireland, and we look forward to seeing these new trains on the network in the coming years”.

For more information on the project, please contact info@thehubtransportadvisory.com