Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has published its post-consultation report on the preferred route for the proposed Luas Cork light rail project, revealing that 85.2 per cent of respondents support the development of the high-capacity transit system.

The report summarizes feedback gathered during an eight-week public consultation conducted between April 17 and June 12, 2026. The consultation generated 1,733 submissions, while over 1,600 individuals attended public events and stakeholder briefings held across Cork.

The planned 18-kilometre light rail line is designed to connect Ballincollig in the west to Mahon Point in the east, serving up to 27 stops. The proposed alignment passes through key educational, medical, commercial, and transport hubs, including Munster Technological University, Cork University Hospital, University College Cork, Cork city centre, Kent Station, the Docklands, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, and Blackrock.

When asked to rank the primary benefits of the light rail proposal, 76.6 per cent of consultation respondents identified frequent, reliable, and safe transport, while 71.7 per cent highlighted its potential to reduce road traffic congestion. Submissions also reflected strong interest in future network extensions beyond Ballincollig and Mahon, as well as connections to Cork Airport.

While broad support was recorded for light rail investment, TII noted that feedback highlighted specific local concerns that require further consideration. The largest concentration of submissions came from the Bishopstown area, where residents and sports organisations—including Highfield Rugby Football Club and Bishopstown GAA—expressed concerns regarding property access, traffic management, and community impact. Further feedback focused on access in Ballintemple and Blackrock, as well as maritime activity on the River Lee.

TII and the National Transport Authority confirmed that feedback from the public consultation will be used to refine the route alignment during the preliminary design phase. This phase will include detailed technical and environmental assessments ahead of a future statutory public consultation under the Railway Order authorisation procedure.