Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) has signed a framework agreement with UK-based rolling stock manufacturer W.H. Davis for the supply of freight wagons, with an initial firm order for 150 units. The framework includes provisions for up to 400 wagons over a ten-year period, dependent on future funding decisions and required approvals.
Production is scheduled to begin shortly at W.H. Davis’ manufacturing site in Nottinghamshire, England. According to the timeline provided, the first batch is expected to be delivered by summer 2026, with operational deployment projected for 2027 following testing and regulatory clearance.
Each new wagon will have a payload capacity in the range of 62 to 65 tonnes and an estimated tare weight between 17 and 20 tonnes. This represents a 33% increase in load capacity compared to the existing fleet, which is nearing the end of its service life after approximately five decades of operation.
Operational speed limits will rise from the current 80 km/h to 110 km/h. The increased capacity and speed are aligned with the operator’s plans to improve freight logistics performance across the network.
Should the full framework be exercised, the 400-wagon fleet would enable Iarnród Éireann to raise rail freight activity to over 100 services weekly. The wagons are part of a broader freight capacity plan, intended to support modal shift policies and emissions reduction targets set at national level.
The upcoming reopening of the Limerick–Foynes railway line in 2026 is expected to play a role in future freight operations, providing access to the deep-water port of Foynes. The connection is being positioned to expand logistics options for shippers based in Ireland and abroad.
The framework contract creates a structured procurement path for wagon acquisition until 2035.
