Dart Network Expansion from Kildare to Heuston Station Receives Approval
Dublin: The Dart+ South West project, connecting Kildare to Heuston Station, has officially received approval from An Bord Pleanála after more than a year of review. This marks the second Dart+ initiative to gain approval, following the Dart+ West railway project’s green light in July this year. Another Dart+ application, the Coastal North railway project, was submitted in September 2023.
The new service will significantly improve rail connectivity for communities in Hazelhatch, Celbridge, Adamstown, Clondalkin, Fonthill, Park West, Cherry Orchard, and Drumcondra. A new station is also planned for Heuston West, which will serve residents in areas such as Clancy Quay and Islandbridge.
Irish Rail Chief Executive Jim Meade announced that construction of the Dart+ South West project is expected to commence in 2026. The project will extend Dart services from Hazelhatch and Celbridge to Heuston Station and Dublin’s South City via the Phoenix Park Tunnel.
Key Features of the Project
The Dart+ South West project is a vital part of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy. Operated by Iarnród Éireann in collaboration with the NTA, the initiative will include:
- 20 km of Electrification and Re-signalling: Covering the Hazelhatch and Celbridge lines to Heuston Station and the Phoenix Park Tunnel to Dublin’s South City.
- Four Tracks: Upgraded rail infrastructure between Park West and Cherry Orchard Station to Heuston Station.
- New Station: A state-of-the-art Heuston West station to benefit local residents.
- Upgrades to Existing Infrastructure: Including the Phoenix Park Tunnel, bridges, and other ancillary works.
- New Electric Dart Carriages: To enhance service reliability and sustainability.
A Strategic Investment in Dublin’s Transport Future
The Dart+ South West project underscores the government’s commitment to expanding Dublin’s rail network and addressing the growing transport demands in the Greater Dublin Area. It aligns with the broader vision of improving sustainable travel options and reducing reliance on road-based transportation.
Construction is poised to begin in 2026, with the completed network promising faster, greener, and more reliable travel for thousands of commuters daily.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp
Comments are closed.