Minister Promises Acceleration for Delayed Dart and Luas Projects

The Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, has indicated that the delayed Dart and Luas projects outlined in the recent review of the National Development Plan (NDP) could be expedited. The NDP, which was published this week, allocates €24.3 billion for transport projects from 2026 to 2030, but several rail initiatives that have already received planning approval are now set to begin construction later than anticipated.

One such project, Dart+ South West, aims to extend Dart services to Celbridge and Hazelhatch in County Kildare. Although the project received planning permission in November 2024 with expectations for construction to commence next year, the NDP review has delayed its start to “2030+.” Similarly, the extension of the Luas Green Line to Finglas in north Dublin, the first expansion of the tram system since 2017, was approved last month by An Coimisiún Pleanála. The state transport authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), stated that it could complete the Finglas extension within four years of construction beginning, with services slated to commence in 2031, provided government funding is secured. Nevertheless, construction for this project is also delayed until 2029 under the new NDP timeline.

The deferral of these rail projects has raised concerns among local representatives. Green Party transport spokesman Feljin Jose expressed worries that the delays would not only impact commuters but also hinder housing development along the proposed routes. “A lot of housing around Adamstown and Clonburris was built in anticipation of [Dart+ South West],” he remarked. “How can the Minister for Transport justify such delays? Why is he abandoning communities in Finglas, in West Dublin and across Kildare?”

In response, Minister O’Brien characterized the timelines in the NDP as “indicative” and emphasized their flexibility. “The timelines given within the [NDP] document, which I think is very clear, are indicative,” he said on Thursday. “If we can move projects forward, we will. Dart+ South West is something I’m absolutely committed to.” Regarding the Finglas Luas extension, he assured that he would work to start construction before 2029.

The previous government had prioritized public transport funding over road development with a 2:1 ratio. Under the new plan, €10.1 billion is earmarked for public transport projects, while €9.7 billion is allocated for the road network and road safety improvements. Minister O’Brien firmly rejected assertions that he was favoring road construction at the expense of public transport funding. “That is absolutely not true. There’s never been more investment in public transport services than in this NDP,” he stated. He also acknowledged the need for road infrastructure renewal, noting, “There has been a funding deficit within our road network too.”

Looking ahead, applications for the long-awaited Navan to Dublin rail line and the Cork Luas are anticipated to be submitted before 2030, although construction on these projects is not expected to start during the current funding period. Meanwhile, construction is scheduled for the Western Rail Corridor between Athenry in Galway and Claremorris in Mayo. Several major road projects are also planned, including the Galway City Ring Road, which is still under review by An Coimisiún Pleanála, as well as the Slane bypass and the upgraded Limerick to Foynes road.

As the government navigates these pressing infrastructure projects, the balance between road and rail investment remains a critical focus, impacting both current transport options and future urban development across the region.