Bus Éireann Tivoli Depot

MMD Construction is currently delivering a new Bus Éireann maintenance and operations depot at Tivoli Dock, Cork. The project forms part of the BusConnects Cork programme led by the National Transport Authority (NTA). This development plays a key role in supporting Cork’s evolving public transport system, particularly as the city transitions to a low-emissions, electric-ready bus fleet.

The Tivoli site will provide critical temporary capacity while enabling future network expansion, relieving pressure from the existing Capwell depot, which is already operating at full capacity.

Site Information

The depot is being constructed on a 2.55-hectare site previously occupied by TATA Steel, within the live, operational Port of Cork.

The site is bordered by the Cork–Cobh railway line to the north, active Port of Cork freight yards to the east, and an internal access road with underground services corridor to the south. This live, heavily constrained environment presents significant logistical and construction

challenges. The team engages daily with the rail, port, and industrial stakeholders to manage site access, material deliveries, and work sequencing around ongoing operations and shared infrastructure. In response, the site team has implemented phased delivery strategies and live interface planning to maintain port operations and ensure public safety throughout construction.

Project Scope

The depot is designed to serve as a fully operational maintenance and parking base for Bus Éireann’s Cork fleet. Once complete, the site will accommodate over 150 buses, with facilities for refueling, washing, and routine maintenance, along with staff welfare and office areas.

The infrastructure is also being delivered with full EV-readiness, including ducting, power upgrades, and future charging provisions. A new attenuation system, coordinated underground services, and high-spec surfacing works form part of the enabling civil package, ensuring the depot can operate efficiently from day one.

The development supports Cork’s long-term public transport strategy while also providing short- to mid-term operational relief for Bus Éireann’s city services.

Latest Project Update

The project has seen significant progress across several key work areas in recent weeks. Excavation and formation of the attenuation tank is underway, forming part of the depot’s surface water management system. Simultaneously, the slab preparation works are advancing in the lean-to zones, with radon barriers and steel mesh reinforcement already installed.

CBR testing is ongoing across key areas requiring ground improvement. At the same time, as part of internal works the services team is carrying out window installations in the main office block and the electrical room of the warehouse. Environmental controls remain throughout, including wheel wash systems, dust and noise monitoring, dewatering measures, and spill containment. The site team continues to operate in accordance with the approved Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), ensuring full compliance with regulatory and ecological obligations.