Irish Rail has opened Ireland's first purpose-built modular simulator training centre for Dart drivers at Inchicore Railway Works, as reported by the Business Post, delivering a 1,100 sq m facility designed to train drivers using advanced simulation technology as the national rail operator prepares for a significant expansion of its electrified network.

The facility was delivered by Cpac Modular, a Co Meath modern methods of construction specialist, and forms part of Irish Rail's broader Dart expansion programme. Unlike conventional modular buildings, the project required the integration of sophisticated engineering systems, specialist data infrastructure and technology supplied by international simulator manufacturers.

Rachael Ryan, project manager at Cpac Modular, said the project demanded a highly collaborative approach across multiple specialist disciplines. "The precision required, from coordinating international simulator suppliers to integrating advanced data and engineering systems, demanded a collaborative, solutions-focused approach from everyone involved," she said. "We are incredibly proud to hand over a building that will play such a vital role in the future of Ireland's rail network."

Constructing much of the building off site reduced disruption within the live operational environment of Inchicore Works while allowing greater quality control and certainty over delivery timelines, demonstrating a key advantage of modular construction in technically demanding, operationally sensitive settings.

Sean Murphy, managing director of Cpac Modular, said the project illustrates how far the modular construction sector has evolved. "This project demonstrates the power of MMC to deliver complex infrastructure safely, efficiently, and to the highest technical standards," he said. "The simulator training centre is a critical asset for Irish Rail, and we are honoured to have played a role in shaping the future of rail training in Ireland."

Once largely associated with temporary accommodation, modular construction is increasingly being specified for permanent schools, healthcare facilities and complex infrastructure projects where speed of delivery and precision engineering are decisive factors.

Founded more than four decades ago in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath, Cpac Modular has expanded its off-site construction business across education, healthcare and commercial sectors. Last year it completed Ireland's first permanent modular school in Lucan.