BusConnects launches more Dublin routes

The National Transport Authority (NTA), in partnership with Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland, has today launched Phase 7 of the BusConnects Network Redesign, the most geographically expansive phase of the programme to date.

The new services will go live on Sunday, 19 October, marking a major step forward in the transformation of Dublin’s public transport network.

Phase 7 introduces nine new bus routes, including three 24-hour services F1, F2, and Route 80, which aim to enhance connectivity across the capital and support Dublin’s growing night-time economy.

Communities from Ballymun and Finglas to Tallaght and Templeogue will see improved links under the new rollout, which also supports connections to Glasnevin, Marino, Rathmines, Palmerstown, Liffey Valley, Walkinstown, Kimmage, Broombridge, and the City Centre. Covering the widest footprint of any BusConnects phase so far, this expansion brings a step-change in access to jobs, education, and leisure across Dublin.

Overall bus service levels in these areas are to increase by over 14% as a result of these changes.

As part of the redesign, several existing routes will be withdrawn, including the 9, 26, 40, 40b, 49, 54a, 83, 83a, 123, and 140. Additionally, Route 122 will be diverted via Galtymore Road, and Route 150 will be realigned to serve Greenhills College via Limekiln Road and Limekiln Avenue.

Interchange opportunities have also been expanded, with key connection points at Finglas Village, Botanic Road, O’Connell Street, Heuston Station, Tallaght (The Square), and Broombridge Station.

To support the expansion of services under Phase 7 and advance the electrification of the Dublin Bus fleet, the NTA and Dublin Bus have today announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art bus depot on Jamestown Road. This facility will play a key role in enabling future growth and enhancing the sustainability of public transport in the city. Initially home to a fleet of 86 vehicles, the depot will operate with 93 drivers across 35 daily routes in its initial phase, contributing to a cleaner, more efficient transport network. With 178 dedicated bus parking bays on site, the depot is well-equipped to support both current operations and any future service expansion.

All Phase 7 routes will be included in the TFI 90-Minute Fare scheme, which allows passengers to transfer between eligible bus, Luas, and DART services within a 90-minute window using a TFI Leap Card.

This phase continues the strategic delivery of a modern, integrated public transport system for Dublin, aligned with national goals for sustainable mobility, urban accessibility, and climate action.

Speaking on the launch, Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, said: “Phase 7 of BusConnects is a major step forward in delivering the Programme for Government’s commitment to better, more sustainable public transport.

“With expanded services and new 24-hour routes, we’re connecting more communities, supporting the night-time economy, and making it easier for people to choose public transport. This is real progress towards a cleaner, more accessible Dublin.”

Hugh Creegan, Interim CEO of the NTA, added: “Phase 7 is a significant milestone in the delivery of the BusConnects programme. It is the most wide-reaching phase so far, bringing improved services to more communities across Dublin.

“With new 24-hour routes and better connections across the city, we are making public transport more accessible, more frequent, and more responsive to the needs of people’s daily lives. These changes will strengthen the role of public transport in people’s everyday journeys and support the long-term development of a more sustainable and better-connected city.”

Billy Hann, CEO of Dublin Bus, said: “The opening of Jamestown Depot is an important step in supporting the growth of our electric fleet and in improving services for customers. This state-of-the-art facility reflects the strong partnership between Dublin Bus, the National Transport Authority and the Department of Transport, and we are grateful for the continued support of the Minister in helping us deliver more sustainable public transport for the city. The launch of Phase 7 of BusConnects, which includes three new 24/7 Dublin Bus routes, marks another major step forward in transforming bus services to better meet the needs of people”

Dervla McKay, Managing Director of Go-Ahead Ireland, said: “BusConnects Phase 7 marks another important milestone for Dublin’s transport network, and we’re proud to play our part in connecting more communities across the city. As part of this phase, we’ve recruited almost 50 new local drivers who will join our dedicated Ballymount team, helping to deliver reliable, high-quality, and accessible services for passengers.” 

The launch of Phase 7 follows the successful implementation of Phase 6a earlier this year which marked the halfway point for the delivery of the BusConnects Network Redesign for Dublin.

“We are delighted to announce the enhancement of route 983.This enhanced service will connect towns for work, education and social needs with multiple services each day”.