The next extension of Dublin’s Luas network has moved a step closer after the awarding of a Railway Order by An Coimisiun Pleanala. This is the equivalent of a Transport and Works Act Order and is in effect planning permission for the Luas Finglas line which will be an extension of the green line from Broombridge.
The line will be an almost 4km extension north from the current Broombridge terminus to the Finglas area. Four new stops will be provided at St Helena’s, Finglas Village, St Margaret’s Road and Charlestown. It will provide interchange with Broombridge railway station (on the planned DART+ West line) as well as bus services.
It will create a new high-capacity, frequent, fast public transport connection for communities in the Finglas area. Journey times to and from Dublin City Centre will be shortened to approximately 30 minutes or less and provide for connections to other destinations. Its aimed to unlock housing supply close to the route, in support of the government’s goals for transport orientated development and the transition to a zero-carbon transport system.
Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Transport, said: “This is a major milestone in expanding Dublin’s public transport network. Luas Finglas will offer thousands of Dubliners a fast, reliable, sustainable way to get around the city, helping to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. The additional cycle and pedestrian facilities involved in the project will offer even more sustainable and active transport options.
“By reducing journey times, the project will also support the development of housing and businesses along the route. Luas Finglas will bring great benefits to the local community as well as to Dublin as a whole.”
Following the awarding of the Railway Order, the Luas Finglas team at Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) will review it in detail before providing a timeline for next steps. Its being funded by the Department of Transport, and previous estimates of an opening of the line were 2031.
The route will be mostly off-road and segregated from road traffic. As well as the tramway a 1.2km segregated two-way cycle track and 1.8km of segregated and protected one-way cycle track will be provided. A 350-vehicle park and ride facility is also due to be provided close to the proposed stop at St Margaret’s.
This is one of four Luas extensions identified in the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042.
- Full details of the plans can be seen at https://www.luasfinglas.ie/