Explainer: Waterford Flood Protection works, late August 2025 to March 2026

Major flood prevention works to protect the rail line on the approach to Waterford are to begin from late August, as part of the Waterford North Quays Development, Iarnród Éireann has advised customers.

The flood prevention works will be undertaken by contractors for Waterford City and County Council (WCCC) and will address the recurring flooding issue which has occurred over many years at this location and ensure the railway service is climate resilient into the future.

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.

The company 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).