Project Specific FAQs
Click on a logo below for the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to that DART+ project.
All FAQs
The DART+ West project is seeking to modernise the existing railway whilst protecting where possible the existing heritage of the railway. In order to construct the electrification system, certain interventions are required that will impact on specific bridges.
The project team have considered the architectural heritage of all bridge structures in the options assessments and physical interventions to these heritage structures will only be undertaken where absolutely necessary. In most cases works are confined to the railway bridges in proximity to the canal bridges and works will be restricted as much as possible to avoid any potential impact on these structures. An architectural heritage assessment of the proposed development and all protected structures impacted by the proposed works will be undertaken as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report.
It is anticipated that there will be road and bridge closures associated with the construction of the DART+ West project. The timing and duration of any closures will be on a case-by-case basis depending on the location and the complexity of the construction works required at that specific location. Details of any road closures, duration and temporary diversions will be developed as part of the environmental impact assessment process and presented in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR). In advance of any road closures the DART+ West project will be proactive in publicising planned works and diversionary routes.
As well as Iarnród Éireann being committed to this project, it is provided for in the Programme for Government, the National Development Plan and the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area. Ultimately all projects are dependent on Exchequer funding for financing. Subject to receipt of Railway Order approval from An Bord Pleanála and approval of the Project Business Case by Government, the project will go ahead.
Some vegetation management and cut back of trees will be required to accommodate the new overhead line electrical equipment (OHLE) and infrastructure. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) will assess the impacts of vegetation removal and propose mitigation measures as appropriate. Tree clearance will be undertaken in accordance with seasonal constraints and where this is not feasible trees will be examined by an ecologist to determine the presence of nesting birds and bats in advance of any felling or clearance. A landscape plan will be developed for the scheme to mitigate impacts.
The DART+ West project will only undertake works within the lands specified within the railway order. Planting on private lands will not form part of the project. A landscape and visual assessments will be undertaken as part of the design and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. Where the assessments determine that visual screening is required this will be provided within Iarnród Éireann’s lands or lands to be acquired by Iarnród Éireann as part of the railway order process.
Anybody can make an observation about the Railway Order to the planning authority, i.e. An Bord Pleanála but there are different conditions depending on whether or not your property is referenced in the Railway Order.
All observations must be received by An Bord Pleanála by 5.30pm on 16th May 2023.
1. Potentially Impacted Properties (including homes and businesses) who are referenced in the Railway Order, i.e. you received a pack showing drawings of how your property may be impacted can make an observation as follows
- No Fee required
- Include your full name and address
- Email to SIDS@pleanala.ie
- By Post DART+ South West Railway Order application
An Bord Pleanála
64 Marlborough St
Dublin 1
D01 V902
2. Members of the public / organisations who are NOT referenced in the Railway Order, can make an observation, as follows:
- Pay a €50 fee
- Include your full name and address
- On website www.abp.ie
- POST to
Strategic Infrastructure Developments,
An Bord Pleanála
64 Marlborough St
Dublin 1
D01 V902