Connectivity

​As of 2022, the Port of Waterford handled approximately 1.5 million tonnes of bulk products, primarily agri-related, along with over 100,000 tonnes of break bulk, including timber and steel.

In February 2024, the port managed a record-breaking cargo, unloading 80-meter-long wind turbine blades, the largest ever imported into Ireland, demonstrating its capacity to handle large-scale, specialized shipments. A €60m investment in the port will facilitate an estimated +4% growth per annum growth forecast to 2040.

Port of Waterford (Bulk & Lo-Lo) and the 73km away Rosslare Europort (Passengers and Ro-Ro) are Ireland’s closest ports to mainland Europe. Both ports offer a range of direct services to Northern European destinations plus direct UK services from Rosslare and rail freight services in Waterford.

Additionally, in 2023, 94% of all export containers from the port originated from the Southeast counties of Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford, and Tipperary, highlighting the port’s significance to the regional economy.

The port continues to offer twice-weekly services to Rotterdam, connecting to global shipping routes. Management remains committed to collaborating with importers and exporters to develop new routes, contingent on demand.

Waterford continues to enhance its digital infrastructure, with significant investments aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic growth.

The National Broadband Plan has allocated €59 million to Waterford, targeting the delivery of high-speed broadband to over 16,000 premises across the county. Additionally, SIRO is investing over €1 billion nationally, with ongoing projects in Tramore to provide future-proofed fibre broadband services. These initiatives ensure that Waterford’s broadband speeds not only meet but often exceed national averages, enabling businesses to effectively engage in the global market.

To capitalise on this enhanced connectivity, Waterford City and County Council has developed a comprehensive Digital Strategy for 2022-2026.

This strategy focuses on six key themes:​

• Digital Economy: Promoting digital innovation and supporting local enterprises in adopting new technologies.​

• Citizens & Community: Enhancing digital literacy and ensuring inclusive access to digital services for all residents.​

• Digital Infrastructure: Continuing to improve broadband networks and related technologies to support current and future needs.​

• Smart City: Implementing intelligent solutions to improve urban living, including smart transportation and energy management systems.​

• Digital Council: Leveraging technology to enhance public services and engage more effectively with the community.​

• Climate Action: Utilizing digital tools to support environmental sustainability and reduce carbon footprints.​

Through these focused efforts, Waterford aims to position itself as a leader in digital transformation, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from technological advancements. The commitment to a digitally enabled society is evident in the collaborative approach taken by the council, businesses, and communities, all working together to harness the full potential of digital technologies.​

Waterford is now even better connected to Dublin and the wider region. The city is reachable by road in under 90 minutes via the upgraded M9 motorway linking Dublin Airport and city centre, while robust connections to Cork are maintained along the N25—with investments of over €250 million in the New Ross bypass route reinforcing Waterford’s role as the Gateway to the South East.

Additionally, there are now 10 daily rail services between Waterford and Dublin City Centre, with average journey times of about 110 minutes, early commuter options, and onboard Wi-Fi to help passengers hit the ground running.