DART+ Coastal North Railway Order Submitted to Extend Service to Drogheda

In a significant development for Ireland's public transportation, Iarnród Éireann has submitted a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála for the DART+ Coastal North project. This extension aims to extend DART services to Drogheda, thereby doubling peak capacity from Malahide to Drogheda and improving overall service frequency. The introduction of battery-electric DART+ trains is anticipated by early 2026, prior to the complete electrification of the line.

The proposed project aligns with Ireland's sustainability goals, reducing carbon emissions by integrating eco-friendly trains. The new battery-electric trains will serve as an interim solution until the full electrification is completed, thus enabling earlier service improvements.

Public consultations will take place from July 19 to September 20, 2024, allowing communities and stakeholders to provide input on the project. This consultation phase is crucial for gathering feedback and ensuring that the project meets the needs of the affected areas.

The DART+ Coastal North project enjoys strong support from the Department of Transport. The initiative is expected to deliver numerous benefits, including enhanced connectivity for communities in Drogheda, East Meath, and North County Dublin.

Minister for Transport Éamon Ryan highlighted the project's impact, stating, “This project will mean that we can almost double capacity at peak time, giving communities a quality, more frequent train service between Dublin and Drogheda, while supporting our decarbonisation goals.”