Proposed DART extension should be fast-tracked to avoid delays – Doherty

The proposed extension of the DART line to Drogheda must be prioritised to ensure it is in place as soon as possible, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Cabinet today approved the extension of the overhead electric wires on the DART system by 37km, from Malahide in north Dublin to Drogheda in Co. Louth as part of the DART+ Coastal North project.

Senator Regina Doherty, Fine Gael European election candidate for Dublin said: “I welcome the decision by the Government today to move forward with a proposal to extend the DART to Drogheda. This will make a big difference for communities in north County Dublin who will benefit from faster and more frequent rail links to Dublin city. However, I am concerned at the potential for delays in the planning processes along the lines of what we have seen with other major infrastructure projects.

“Currently the plan is for the extended DART to be in place three years after the approval of the planning application. However, we have seen the timelines for other major infrastructure projects such as Metro North repeatedly delayed. I do not want to see a repeat of such delays here. This project will make a huge difference to the lives of many people in the north county, in places such as Clongriffin, Donabate, Balbriggan and Skerries, leading to shorter commutes, less stress, and a better quality of life. This project is long overdue. There is an onus to make it happen as soon as possible.

“Dublin is a county with a thriving and dynamic economy. However, our growth and quality of life potential is limited by under-investment in infrastructure such as public transport. Now there is an opportunity to show our commitment to really making progress in this area. I call on the Minister for Transport to ensure that this DART extension happens as quickly as possible for the benefit of people across Dublin.”