Navan rail line project begins as consultants appointed
The long-awaited Navan rail line project is officially underway following the appointment by Iarnród Éireann of consultants for the duration of the project to work with the rail company’s in-house project team.
The project involves a new rail line of approximately 40 kilometres from the existing terminus station at M3 Parkway, north of Dunboyne, to the busy and growing commuter town of Navan, delivering direct Navan to Dublin city centre rail services.
Following an initial feasibility study, the project is included in the approved National Transport Authority (NTA) Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy 2022-2042. The Navan Rail Line is being delivered by Iarnród Éireann on behalf of NTA. Funding for the project is provided by Department of Transport through the NTA.
The first phase of the programme will see scope and design development, and route option selection, developed over the next two years. This will include public consultation on the emerging preferred route proposal, and will prepare for a Railway Order (equivalent of planning permission) application to An Bord Pleanála in 2027. The line is expected to serve new stations, including at Dunshaughlin and Kilmessan, along its route.
Subject to planning and funding approvals, the project delivery phase is envisaged between 2030 and 2035 under the NTA’s Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy.
According to Iarnrod Eireann, benefits of the project include:
- Faster more sustainable travel options for people living in catchment areas including Navan, Kilmessan and Dunshaughlin - Environmental benefits, with a sustainable, low-carbon rail service preventing further congestion on the road network and supporting Ireland’s transition to a sustainable transport network - Enable Growth: Support sustainable economic development and population growth in the Navan – Dublin corridor through the provision of high frequency, high-capacity public transport services. - Improve Connectivity: Improve access to jobs, education, and other social and economic opportunities through the provision of improved connectivity and integration with other public transport services. - Enable Compact Growth: Enable transport-oriented urban compact growth along the corridor to unlock regeneration opportunities and more effective use of land in the eastern region, for present and future generations.
Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann said: “Making rail the backbone of Ireland’s sustainable transport network means connecting new communities to our rail network, as well as enhancing existing services. With the Navan rail line integral to the NTA’s Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy, we look forward to developing the plans and advancing this key project to enable more commuters in Co Meath choose sustainable transport for their travel and commuting needs.”