Construction on a long-awaited new DART line connecting west Dublin to Kildare could begin earlier than previously expected, following fresh indications from Government that the project may be accelerated.
The DART+ South West project, which will extend electrified rail services from Dublin to Celbridge and Hazelhatch in Co Kildare, had originally been scheduled to begin construction this year. However, following a review of the National Development Plan, the timeline was pushed back to 2030.
Despite the delay, Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien has suggested the project could now be brought forward if funding becomes available.
Speaking in the Dáil this week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was hopeful financial support could be secured to allow work to begin sooner than anticipated.
The DART+ South West scheme forms part of the wider DART+ programme aimed at modernising and expanding rail infrastructure across the Greater Dublin Area. The project includes the electrification of the rail line between Heuston Station and Hazelhatch, increased train capacity and more frequent services for commuters travelling between Dublin and Kildare.
It is also expected to reduce journey times, improve reliability and support housing and population growth in rapidly expanding commuter towns including Celbridge, Adamstown and Clondalkin.
The overall DART+ programme is being led by Iarnród Éireann and is regarded as one of the largest public transport investments in the State’s history.
No revised construction date has yet been confirmed, but Government sources have indicated discussions around funding and delivery timelines are ongoing.
