Will GLUAS work in Galway?

What is light rail?

The term 'light rail’ is used to describe modern tram systems that use electric rail cars. Light rail often operates on tracks that are separated from other traffic but it can also share road space with other modes of transport where necessary and/or appropriate. Light rail is a form of public transport that is generally lower in capacity and speed than heavy rail and metro systems. It is particularly suitable for urban centres and their hinterlands.

La Pardieu Gare [Photo B Holland]

Will a light rail system work in Galway?

The answer is yes. The geographical layout of Galway is uniquely suited to a light rail system because of its West-East orientation. The central spur of a light rail system would thus reach a large number of people living, working, studying and shopping in Galway. The addition of a second line (North-South) would ensure maximum connectivity. All of this has been successfully implemented elsewhere ' the success of LUAS in Dublin comes to mind as well as successful light rail systems in towns and cities across Europe. Recent visits by GLUAS members to cities similar in size, density and population profile to Galway city and county have shown that light rail is a sustainable, efficient and cost-effective transport option offering maximum accessibility and real connectivity. University towns such as Jena and Freiburg in Germany and Clermont-Ferrand in France have embraced light rail and have prospered as a result.

Does GLUAS make economic sense?

A preliminary feasibility study carried out by members of the GLUAS group concluded that a light rail system would be viable in Galway. Indeed, it could even be run without state subsidies if 'thinking outside the box' strategies for the project were to include renewable energy generation (e.g. hydro, wind and solar energy to power the trams, with excess energy being fed back in to the grid). As a public project, GLUAS would benefit from the Irish government's current interest in sustainable public transport (e.g. commitment to a light rail feasibility study for Galway). Alternative models such as private financing, public-private partnership or a GLUAS bonds/shares investment scheme for citizens have also been identified as possible options.

Who will benefit from GLUAS?

Eyre Square Fountain [Photo H Rau]

What will this mean for you? People of all age groups living and working in Galway would benefit from a light rail system. GLUAS would also be disability-friendly and fully accessible to wheelchair users. Motorists would benefit too, as any improvements in public transport will help address gridlock. Similarly visitors to the city and its environs could easily get around using GLUAS. Overall, GLUAS would be a truly sustainable project that is good for people and the environment while at the same time being economically viable.

But there is more to this process than meets the eye: we envisage GLUAS to be part of a larger plan to transform Galway into a model sustainable city. Global challenges such as peak oil, climate change and the displacement of people mean that cities around the world need to act responsibly and with foresight. Making Galway socially and environmentally sustainable would undoubtedly bring new opportunities for all, boost employment and entice visitors. There is no better place than Galway to be transformed into a 'green' city!

What are the most likely routes for such a system?

There are two possible GLUAS route options currently being explored. Others may emerge during future rounds of consultation and research which all citizens are invited to join. The GLUAS group believes that it is vital to get broad support for change first before engaging in the difficult task of selecting routes for GLUAS.

Possible Routes