Reinstating the Limerick to Foynes Railway

An in-depth look at the Limerick to Foynes Railway Project, the largest rail reinstatement in Ireland in over a century. This €65 million project involves the restoration of a 42km (26miles) disused corridor to re-establish freight connectivity between Limerick and Foynes Port. The presentation will explore the project’s scope, key engineering challenges, contract management under the Irish Public Works Contract, innovative design and construction solutions, and the collaborative approach driving successful delivery

Speaker

James Brinn - James is a highly experienced Civil Engineer with over 15 years of expertise in infrastructure delivery, site supervision, and project management across the rail, road, and water sectors. He is currently a Senior Resident Engineer with O’Connor Sutton Cronin (OCSC), serving on Ireland’s largest railway project in a century — the 42km Limerick to Foynes Railway reinstatement. In this role, James leads contract administration, stakeholder coordination, and progress certification under the Irish Public Works Contract. Throughout his career, James has overseen the successful delivery of major infrastructure and utility projects, including rail construction, road upgrades, drainage schemes, and active travel initiatives. His experience spans contract administration, cost forecasting, and compliance management, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards of quality. A Member of Engineers Ireland (MIEI) and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES), James is deeply committed to maintaining excellence in safety, quality, and sustainability. Backed by a strong understanding of Irish and EU construction standards, he brings leadership, technical expertise, and a collaborative approach to every project he undertakes