Bray Luas line set to be fast-tracked – O’Connell

The Bray Luas line could be underway as soon as 2031, a Fine Gael TD has reported, signalling a change of plan from the original 2042 timeline.

Deputy Maeve O’Connell received confirmation from the National Transport Authority that the delivery of the Luas Green line extension to Bray is proposed in the medium term between 2031-2036.

She said: “This project will be a huge benefit to commuters from south Dublin into the city, and highlights how the Government is taking the need for public transport seriously.

“I hear from commuters every day that the Luas Green line feels like it’s at capacity, with people struggling to squeeze in.

“We hear similar stories from the N11, where commuters face heavy traffic congestion, that slows travel times to a crawl at rush hours.

“Over the past few months, I have been in regularly highlighting the urgent need for additional public transport infrastructure to Department of Transport and the National Transport Authority with regard to the urgent need for additional public transport infrastructure.

“Previously it was not anticipated for this Luas line to be delivered until after 2042 according to the current GDA Transport Strategy.

“However, the NTA have confirmed to me that this timeline is being re-considered, and subject to a travel demand analysis and funding in 2027 a light rail line serving the N11 corridor may be brought to option selection and design.

“This would represent a significant acceleration of this project and shows how this Government is responding quickly to the urgent transport needs across Dublin.

“The project would be subject to a full route options selection review, and it is absolutely vital that this Luas line also meets the needs of the local communities it will pass through such as Goatstown, Mount Merrion among many others.

“Following on from a public meeting I held earlier this year on the Eastern Bypass, it was clear that there is a strong appetite for further investment in public transport infrastructure.

“Over the coming weeks I will be working closely with my colleagues across Government to ensure we continue to deliver the infrastructure projects our communities need.”