The Dart+ project aims to expand the electrified Dart network from Hazelhatch and Celbridge to Heuston Station and the South City, using the Phoenix Park Tunnel. This application was lodged in May last year. It will improve transport options for communities in Hazelhatch, Celbridge, Adamstown, Clondalkin, Fonthill, Parkwest, Cherry Orchard, Drumcondra, and at a new station at Heuston West.
Dart+ is part of the NTA Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy for 2022-2042. Iarnród Éireann is delivering the project for the NTA, promising to quadruple customer capacity.
Key infrastructure improvements include 20 kilometers of electrification and re-signaling of the Hazelhatch and Celbridge Line to Heuston. A new station will be built at Heuston West to serve Clancy Quay and Island Bridge. Additionally, the line from Park West and Cherry Orchard Station to Heuston will be four-tracked to increase capacity.
The project will also cover all necessary civil and bridge works, alongside upgrades to the Phoenix Park Tunnel. New electric Dart carriages will be introduced on Hazelhatch and Celbridge services.
What are the key features and benefits of the Dart+ project for Dublin residents?
Interview with Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Irish Rail on the Dart+ Project
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Jim. The Dart+ project is a major initiative for the Greater Dublin Area. Can you provide us with a brief overview of what this project entails?
Jim Meade: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The Dart+ project aims to significantly expand the electrified Dart network, extending from Hazelhatch and Celbridge all the way to Heuston Station and the South City. It involves key infrastructure developments, including 20 kilometers of electrification, the re-signaling of the Hazelhatch and Celbridge Line, and the introduction of new electric Dart carriages. We’re particularly excited about the new station being built at Heuston West which will service the Clancy Quay and Island Bridge areas.
News Directory 3: The impact of this project seems significant. How do you envision it improving transport options for local communities?
Jim Meade: The Dart+ project is pivotal for transforming commuting in the Greater Dublin Area. We expect to quadruple customer capacity, which will make travel more sustainable, frequent, and reliable for residents in Hazelhatch, Celbridge, Adamstown, Clondalkin, Fonthill, Parkwest, Cherry Orchard, and beyond. This improves access to jobs, education, and other essential services, fostering a more integrated transport network.
News Directory 3: You mentioned that this project is part of the NTA’s Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy for 2022-2042. How does the Dart+ project align with Ireland’s climate action goals?
Jim Meade: The Dart+ program supports our climate action goals by promoting sustainable public transport options. By expanding the electrified network and providing alternatives to private car use, we can reduce congestion and lower emissions. It’s essential that we develop a public transport system that not only meets the current demand but also encourages a shift towards more environmentally friendly modes of transport.
News Directory 3: What are the next steps in the Dart+ project, particularly in terms of construction timelines?
Jim Meade: We are currently at a critical stage, having received planning permission for the Dart+ West Railway Order in July. The procurement process for construction will begin soon, and if funding is approved, we expect to start construction in 2026. This timeline allows us to ensure that all necessary civil and bridge works, along with upgrades to the Phoenix Park Tunnel, are thoroughly planned and executed.
News Directory 3: Looking forward, are there any other Dart+ projects in the pipeline that residents should be aware of?
Jim Meade: Definitely. In addition to the Dart+ South West project, we have other initiatives like the Dart+ Coastal North underway. Each of these projects plays a role in enhancing our overall transport infrastructure, ensuring that we can meet the growing demands of the Greater Dublin Area.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Jim, for sharing valuable insights on the Dart+ project. Your commitment to improving commuting for Dublin residents is evident, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes ahead.
Jim Meade: Thank you for having me. We’re excited about the Dart+ project and are committed to providing a modern, efficient, and sustainable transport solution for our communities.
The procurement process for construction will begin soon. If funding is approved, construction for the Dart+ South West project is expected to start in 2026.
Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Irish Rail, stated that the Dart services will significantly improve commuting for residents in these areas. He emphasized the commitment to making travel sustainable, frequent, and reliable. The Dart+ West Railway Order was granted planning permission in July. Other projects like Dart+ Coastal North are also underway.
The Dart+ program aims to transform commuting in the Greater Dublin Area and supports Ireland’s climate action goals by promoting sustainable public transport options and reducing reliance on private cars.
