Summary: Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien has secured Cabinet approval to establish a statutory body tasked with delivering MetroLink, Ireland’s largest public transport project. The move follows planning approval and signals a new phase in advancing the €9.5 billion rail line connecting Dublin Airport to the city centre.
🚆 A Landmark Decision
The Cabinet has endorsed a proposal to create a dedicated MetroLink delivery body, reflecting the scale and national importance of the project. The new entity will operate under the Department of Transport, ensuring accountability and focus as Ireland prepares for its most ambitious infrastructure investment to date.
🏛️ Minister’s Statement
Minister Darragh O’Brien expressed gratitude to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) for its role in advancing MetroLink through planning, design, procurement strategy, and public consultation. He noted that the new delivery body will build on this foundation, ensuring the project is managed with efficiency and transparency.
📌 Next Steps
The Department of Transport will convene a working group with officials from TII, the National Transport Authority, and other departments to address legislative and practical requirements. A General Scheme of a Bill will be drafted to give statutory effect to the new body.
🌍 Urban Development Impact
MetroLink is expected to directly support the delivery of 31,700 new housing units along its corridor, accommodating a population increase of nearly 90,000 people. Key areas include Ballymun and Lissenhall, designated as Transport-Oriented Development zones.
The line will connect residents to hospitals, schools, universities, leisure facilities, and Dublin Airport, while a planned Park and Ride facility will extend access to commuters beyond walking and cycling distance.
⚖️ Policy Context
The announcement follows An Coimisiún Pleanála’s approval of the MetroLink Railway Order on 2 October, alongside the Government’s commitment in the National Development Plan Review to fund construction through the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund.
