DART extension to Drogheda is “game-changer” says MEP

Dublin MEP Ciarán Cuffe has described a planned extension of the DART line to Drogheda as a “game-changer” for households in North County Dublin.

The DART Coastal North project, due to begin construction by 2026, is set to double the frequency of trains between Drogheda and Dublin city centre.

The Green Party MEP made a submission to the public consultation where he called for a shuttle bus service from Dublin Airport to Clongriffin station, and called for measures to avoid reliance on a shuttle service from Howth to Howth Junction.

Cuffe said “Fingal is one of the fastest-growing counties in Ireland; if we want that growth to be sustainable, we will need more high-quality public transport options like this.”

“At the moment, if you’re living in Balbriggan or even Donabate and you want to get into the city, your only option is to get in your car and trundle up the M1 to look for parking in the city centre. That’s bad for Dubliners, and it’s bad for the environment,” and said, “the DART+ project is going to change that.”

Referring to planned improvements at the busy Howth Junction/Donaghmede station, which will host a new shuttle service to Howth station under the proposal, he suggested that a station attendant could provide assistance to vulnerable passengers during operating hours.

“Upgrades to Howth Junction Station should prioritise passenger comfort and accessibility and should facilitate the smooth passage of large numbers of commuters from one platform to another… New lifts should be sufficient in size to contain two bicycles or a large motorised wheelchair.”

Cuffe also advised that improvements along the line should go beyond increases in rail frequency, and called for information displays, seating, rain cover and bathroom facilities to be part of the works.

The DART+ project has been a major part of the Green Party’s brief in Government, with Minister Eamon Ryan earmarking significant public funding to extend the services offered by the DART system, including an enhanced service between Bray and Greystones, a new service to commuter towns Hazelhatch and Celbridge and a new service on the Maynooth/M3 Parkway.