DUBLIN: The Dart Plus Coastal North project, aimed at extending Dart services to Drogheda, has been submitted for planning permission by Iarnród Éireann. This initiative is a key part of expanding Dart services to more regions.
Project Overview
As part of the project, electric trains will run from Malahide to Drogheda MacBride station. This extension will increase service frequency on the route between Dublin City, Malahide, Howth, and Drogheda.
Iarnród Éireann estimates that the new services will benefit between 4,800 to 8,800 passengers during peak hours. The Dart Plus Coastal North project is the third route in the Dart Plus programme and represents a significant step in the expansion of Dart services.
Electrification and Infrastructure Upgrades
The project will electrify 37 kilometres of railway line between Malahide and Drogheda MacBride stations. Additional upgrades include enhancements to Howth Junction and Donaghmede stations, as well as modifications to Fairview and Drogheda train depots. The existing track layout and associated infrastructure at these stations will also be realigned and improved.
Hybrid Power Trains
The service will operate on electricity from Dublin city centre to Malahide and switch to battery power from Malahide to Drogheda. Construction of a charging station in Drogheda is currently underway. Public consultations on the project will be held from July 19 to September 20. The first trains under this scheme are expected to arrive in Ireland in the autumn, with service on the Drogheda route anticipated to begin in early 2026 after testing and commissioning.
Government Commitment
Transport Minister Eamonn Ryan emphasised that the Dart expansion is part of the government’s commitment to developing a high-quality, sustainable public transport system in Ireland.
Iarnród Éireann has begun the process of land acquisition necessary for the project. The railway order application related to this initiative is available online as of yesterday.
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