An Coimisiún Pleanála has finally approved the construction of Dublin’s MetroLink between Charlemont and the Swords Estuary.
The long-awaited project linking the city centre to the airport was given the green light on Thursday morning.
The MetroLink plan consists of a new 18.8km railway line, most of which will be underground.
It is almost three years since An Comisiún Pleanála began considering whether to give the green light to the plans, after Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) applied for the Railway Order in November 2022.
Dublin Chamber, the largest chamber of commerce in Ireland, has described the approval as ‘a landmark step forward in delivering the world-class public transport infrastructure that Dublin urgently requires’.
The plan for the MetroLink is to reduce congestion, support climate targets and support Dublin’s competitiveness as a leading European city for business and investment.
Dublin Chamber has now called for works to get underway without delay.
They believe that every further postponement would undermine the city’s growth, sustainability and international reputation.
Head of Public Affairs Stephen Browne said: ‘MetroLink will be a game changer for Dublin, supporting business, talent and quality of life for decades to come.
‘Now that planning approval is secured, the Government must ensure construction begins as quickly as possible.
‘The time for talking is over. The time for building is now.’
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien also welcomed the announcement, explaining that it was a ‘critical nation-building project for Ireland’s future’.
He stated: ‘MetroLink will be transformative for the people of North Dublin and – by linking directly with Dublin airport, DART, heavy rail, Luas and bus services – the entire country.
‘MetroLink will provide a fast, high capacity, high frequency public transport route, and it will enable the construction of tens of thousands of new homes.’
While it has finally been given the green light by An Comisiún Pleanala, it must now get final Cabinet approval before construction can begin.
Construction is expected to take several years with the final costs still unknown.
A Dublin metro was first proposed back in 2000 and repeated attempts have been made in the 25 years since.
However, the plans for MetroLink have unsurprisingly raised concerns among many, mainly around cost overruns and delays.
