Ballina branch line

Ballina branch line
Freight train approaching Foxford in July 1990
Overview
StatusOperational
LocaleCounty Mayo
Termini
Stations3
Service
TypeHeavy rail, commuter rail
SystemIarnród Éireann
ServicesManulla Junction–Ballina
Operator(s)Iarnród Éireann
Rolling stock2800 Class, 071 Class, 201 Class
History
Opened19 May 1873 (1873-05-19)
Killala closed1 July 1934 (1934-07-01)
Technical
Line length20+58 mi (33.2 km)
Number of tracks1
Track gauge5 ft 3 in (1,600 mm) Irish gauge
Operating speed60 mph (97 km/h)
Route map

Killala
Ballina
Foxford
Ballyvary
Manulla Junction

The Ballina branch line is a 20+58 miles (33.2 km) long[1] railway line operated by Iarnród Éireann in County Mayo, in Ireland. The branch runs from Manulla Junction on the Dublin Heuston to Westport railway line, to the town of Ballina via Foxford.

The service mainly consists of a shuttle service along the branch, connecting with Dublin-Westport services at Manulla Junction. Branch trains are worked by 2800 class Commuter railcars. There are also several freight services carrying timber or containers from the branch which run to Waterford.[2] These are generally worked by 071 and 201 class locomotives.

The line was opened on 19 May 1873 and was originally operated by the Midland Great Western Railway. From 1925 it became part of Great Southern Railways. The section from Ballina to the sea at Killala closed on 1 July 1934.[3] From 1945 the line passed to the nationalised CIÉ then to its successor Iarnród Éireann.

  1. ^ Reidy, Michael (30 October 2021). Network Statement (PDF) (2022 ed.). Irish Rail. p. 81. Retrieved 21 September 2022.
  2. ^ "Iarnród Éireann and XPO begin new rail freight service between Port of Waterford & Ballina". Fleet Transport. JJDS Publications. Retrieved 22 September 2022.
  3. ^ Baker (1972), p. 206.