[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":313},["ShallowReactive",2],{"menus-en-ie":3,"content-en-ie-projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/frequently-asked-questions":105,"sidebar-en-ie-projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1":284},{"mainMenu":4,"footerMenu":76},[5,11,66,71],{"__typename":6,"slug":7,"label":8,"subpages":9},"Navigation","about-dart","About DART+ Programme",{"items":10},[],{"__typename":6,"slug":12,"label":13,"subpages":14},"projects","Projects",{"items":15},[16,26,34,42,50,58],{"__typename":6,"label":17,"slug":18,"link":19},"DART+ West","dart-west",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":21,"label":17,"newWindow":24},"",{"__typename":22,"slug":23},"Page","projects/dart-west",{"items":25},[],{"__typename":6,"label":27,"slug":28,"link":29},"DART+ South West","dart-south-west",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":30,"label":27,"newWindow":32},{"__typename":22,"slug":31},"projects/dart-south-west",{"items":33},[],{"__typename":6,"label":35,"slug":36,"link":37},"DART+ Coastal North","dart-coastal-north",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":38,"label":35,"newWindow":40},{"__typename":22,"slug":39},"projects/dart-north",{"items":41},[],{"__typename":6,"label":43,"slug":44,"link":45},"DART+ Coastal South","dart-coastal-south",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":46,"label":43,"newWindow":48},{"__typename":22,"slug":47},"projects/dart-coastal-south",{"items":49},[],{"__typename":6,"label":51,"slug":52,"link":53},"DART+ Fleet","dart-fleet",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":54,"label":51,"newWindow":56},{"__typename":22,"slug":55},"projects/dart-fleet",{"items":57},[],{"__typename":6,"label":59,"slug":60,"link":61},"DART+ Depot","dart-depot",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":62,"label":59,"newWindow":64},{"__typename":22,"slug":63},"projects/dart-depot/public-consultation-1",{"items":65},[],{"__typename":6,"slug":67,"label":68,"subpages":69},"news","News",{"items":70},[],{"__typename":6,"slug":72,"label":73,"subpages":74},"faqs","FAQs",{"items":75},[],[77,86,96],{"__typename":6,"slug":78,"label":79,"link":80,"subpages":84},"contact-us","Contact Us",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":81,"label":79,"newWindow":82},{"__typename":22,"slug":78},{"items":83},[],{"items":85},[],{"__typename":6,"slug":87,"label":88,"link":89,"subpages":94},"terms-privacy-cookies","Terms of Use, Privacy Statement and Cookie Policy",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":90,"label":88,"newWindow":92},{"__typename":22,"slug":91},"cookies",{"items":93},[],{"items":95},[],{"__typename":6,"slug":97,"label":98,"link":99,"subpages":103},"accessibility","Accessibility",{"externalUrl":20,"linkedItem":100,"label":98,"newWindow":101},null,{"items":102},[],{"items":104},[],{"_document":106,"slug":274,"showSideMenu":275,"showBreadcrums":280},{"body":107,"title":273,"description":20},{"html":108,"components":109,"linkedItems":111},"\u003Cobject type=\"application/kenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"link\" data-codename=\"n_76098791_6bc3_4259_928d_e53a7e9dd97e\">\u003C/object>",{"items":110},[],{"items":112},[113],{"__typename":114,"_system_":115,"title":35,"subtitle":20,"cta":100,"listType":118,"items":122},"List",{"id":116,"codename":117},"1b05db85-e651-583c-bd1e-c8fc45edc273","n_76098791_6bc3_4259_928d_e53a7e9dd97e",{"items":119},[120],{"_system_":121},{"codename":72},{"items":123},[124,129,133,137,141,145,149,153,157,161,165,169,173,177,181,185,189,193,197,201,205,209,213,217,221,225,229,233,237,241,245,249,253,257,261,265,269],{"__typename":125,"question":126,"answer":127},"FaqItem","Are any works expected to take place outside of the railway corridor boundary?",{"html":128},"\u003Cp>The majority of proposed works and interventions are expected to be carried out within the existing railway corridor boundary. Some works relating to the provision of new electrical substations, bridge modifications, and construction compounds have been identified as being required outside of the existing boundary.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Details of locations where works are required outside of the existing railway corridor, such as at substations or construction compound locations, can be found in the Public Consultation No.2 published supporting documentation available through the project website www.dartplus.ie. Relevant documents include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>DART+ Coastal North Brochure;\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>DART+ Coastal North Option Selection - Preferred Option Report; and\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>Annex 1 Schematic Layout Drawings.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":130,"answer":131},"How will Construction be managed and what is the expected duration of the works.",{"html":132},"\u003Cp>A detailed construction strategy has been prepared, which includes programming, phasing and construction methodologies for the proposed DART+ Coastal North project works and information in respect of the proposed construction strategy is provided in the Public Consultation No.2 supporting documentation, available on the project website at www.dartplus.ie. This strategy has been developed in close consultation with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) team, to ensure that construction impacts are clearly identified and avoided or minimised where possible. A Construction Environmental Management Plan and Traffic Impact Assessment is being prepared to accompany the RO application, setting out the measures to be taken during construction to ensure against significant effects on the environment. The construction impacts will be comprehensively analysed and assessed in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report and in the Appropriate Assessment documentation, to provide sufficient information for the competent authority to reach its reasoned conclusions on the potential effects of the project on the environment, and on European sites.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":134,"answer":135},"How will increased frequency of DART trains on the Howth Branch affect vehicles and pedestrians/cyclists waiting at the level crossings?",{"html":136},"\u003Cp>The proposed changes to the Howth Branch will facilitate an increase in both DART service frequency and capacity, along with improvements to the reliability of timetabling and service operation. Operational benefits linked to the infrastructural upgrades will allow for greater operational flexibility and optimisation of services on the Howth Branch. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The current level crossing barrier opening and closing timings have been used to inform a traffic model assessing the effects on vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Detailed assessment of the four existing level crossings along the Howth Branch Line has concluded that these level crossings can continue to operate and provide an appropriate level of cross connectivity and accessibility whilst still meeting the increased DART service frequency requirement. The increased frequency of level crossing closures will result in a greater likelihood of vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists being required to queue at the crossings, however, the traffic modelling and sensitivity analysis has shown that queue lengths are likely to remain within the available queueing road space in all cases. Based on the assessments carried out to date, additional infrastructural interventions at the four level crossings are not considered necessary. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The impacts on traffic surrounding the Howth Branch level crossings have been assessed using LinSig modelling software. LinSig is an industry standard software tool which allows traffic engineers to model traffic signals and their effect on traffic capacities and queuing. This was used to investigate the impacts of the barrier closures on the surrounding road network and further details are included in Annex 3.7 Appendix B of the published material which is available through the project website https://www.dartplus.ie/en-ie/projects/dart-north.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The traffic data used in the level crossing assessments was based on surveys carried out in May 2022. These included classified vehicle junction turning count surveys over a 14-hour time period between 0600 and 2000 at the junctions within the study area and also at the level crossings within the study area. The data also included queue length surveys and pedestrian count surveys. The AM peak hour was determined to occur between 0800 and 0900 and the PM peak hour between 1730 and 1830 (refer to Annex A). These are the busiest periods on the road network and the impact of the proposed level crossing closures was therefore assessed for these time periods. Historical traffic data (2018/2019) was available at some of the junctions adjacent to the Kilbarrack and Sutton level crossings and a comparison of the most recent traffic data (2022) and the historic traffic data (2018/2019) has shown that traffic levels observed in the recent surveys have, to a large extent, returned to pre-Covid levels in the study area. The most recent 2022 traffic count data were therefore considered a suitable data source for the assessment.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The effects of any changes to traffic patterns will be fully assessed as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) and it should also be noted that the EIAR accompanying the Railway Order application will include a comprehensive assessment of potential air quality and climate impacts resulting from the proposed DART+ Coastal North development.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":138,"answer":139},"How will the local community benefit?",{"html":140},"\u003Cp>DART+ Coastal North is seeking to increase the frequency and capacity of train services between Drogheda and Dublin City Centre, inclusive of the Howth Branch Line. This can be achieved by introducing electrified, high-capacity DART trains and increasing the frequency of these trains. Delivery of this project will support the existing communities along the railway and support future sustainable development. DART+ Coastal North will serve all existing stations along the route using electrical power that has a lower carbon footprint than the existing diesel trains. The frequency and quality of service will provide a viable transport alternative to communities along the route and will encourage people to switch from private car use. This will assist in Ireland reducing transport related greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change. The electrification of the rail line will predominantly follow the existing railway corridor and works will mostly be carried out within the extents of the existing railway corridor.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":142,"answer":143},"I regularly travel on the Belfast-Dublin Mainline, how will DART+ Coastal North affect journey times and existing rail services?",{"html":144},"\u003Cp>It is important to note that the DART+ Coastal North Project will deliver rail infrastructure which will enable the proposed increased frequency and capacity of rail services between Drogheda, Howth, and Dublin City Centre. The project will also deliver improved reliability of services on both the Northern and Howth Lines. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Whilst the technical characteristics of the new DART+ Fleet are still being finalised, modelling completed to date suggests expected DART journey times between Drogheda and Dublin Connolly during peak periods would take circa 53 minutes. It is worth noting that the DART+ Coastal North project will deliver the infrastructure to enable the maximum level of service on the Northern Line and future journey times and/or timetables have yet to be developed and will be sensitive to a variety of influencing factors.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Timetables will be developed based on some DART trains stopping at all stations between Drogheda and Dublin City Centre, and others operating on a skip stopping pattern, similar to the existing stopping pattern on Northern Commuter services. Also, there will be different phases of timetable development that will be gradually introduced as the project builds towards the maximum level of service. The operational detail behind each of these phases will be determined through the timetable decisions at those times. Any substantial timetable change will go through a Public Consultation process of its own organised by the NTA known as the Timetable Customer Consultation Process.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Actual journey times, and timetables, for DART services originating from Drogheda will vary depending on the stopping patterns of DART services implemented in the future, of which there are many variations and options to consider. Timetables will be developed based on some DART trains stopping at all stations between Drogheda and Dublin City Centre, and others operating on a skip stopping pattern. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>At certain times, operating an Enterprise service during a peak period may result in an extended journey time for Enterprise services. This does however allow Iarnrod Eireann to maximise the Northern Line track capacity, through the implementation of the DART+ Coastal North project. Factors including the output from the ongoing Enterprise Fleet Replacement Project, the improved acceleration and braking provided by the new DART+ Fleet, and the stopping patterns of DART services implemented on the Northern Line will all influence and inform future journey times.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":146,"answer":147},"What are the main objectives of the DART+ Coastal North project?",{"html":148},"\u003Cp>The main objectives of the DART+ Coastal North project include delivering the infrastructure to enable a higher frequency, higher capacity, reliable, electrified route to enable an increased DART service frequency between Drogheda and Dublin City Centre. Further information can be found in the project brochure or the project website.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":150,"answer":151},"How long will the public consultation period extend for?",{"html":152},"\u003Cp>The second non- statutory public consultation, Public Consultation No.2, focussing on the Preferred Option for DART+ Coastal North is scheduled to be held in Spring 2023 (09 May - 23 June). \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The first non - statutory public consultation period was held in Spring 2022. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":154,"answer":155},"How can I voice my thoughts and opinions in relation to the project?",{"html":156},"\u003Cp>This consultation is our way of asking you, as potential users of the service or those likely to be affected by its development, for your views on our plans. Your local knowledge will inform the emerging design, help us to improve the scheme and ensure it will be a beneficial for you and the communities the route will serve.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>You can engage with us via the following means:\u003Cbr>Website | \u003Cstrong>www.dartplus.ie\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Email | \u003Cstrong>DARTCoastalNorth@irishrail.ie\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Phone line | \u003Cstrong>01 233 4515\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":158,"answer":159},"How does the Railway Order application process work?",{"html":160},"\u003Cp>The Railway Order application is essentially an application seeking statutory consent (planning permission and acquisition of land) for the DART+ Coastal North railway infrastructure. The project is categorised as a Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) and Iarnród Éireann applies directly to An Bord Pleanála for permission. The Railway Order application process is set out in the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 as amended by the Strategic Infrastructure Act 2006. Following the proposed two phases of non-statutory public consultation, Iarnród Éireann will submit the Railway Order application. Any person or body may make a submission or observation in writing to An Bord Pleanála in relation to the application. The Railway Order application will include a number of technical documents and project drawings as well as an Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Appropriate Assessment documentation (AA screening / Natura Impact Statement (NIS)). All these documents and drawings together with any feedback/submissions received from the public as part of the statutory public consultation process will be reviewed and considered by An Bord Pleanála before a decision on the application is made. We expect that An Bord Pleanála will conduct an Oral Hearing before a decision is made. At an Oral Hearing the authors of relevant reports and experts will give evidence on the submissions received and will be available for questioning. Further information on making a submission / observation in writing to the Board and Oral Hearing procedures are available from the An Bord Pleanála website.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":162,"answer":163},"What do you mean by shuttle service between Howth and Howth Junction & Donaghmede?",{"html":164},"\u003Cp>The primary objective of the DART+ Coastal North project is to deliver the infrastructure to enable increased train frequency and capacity between Drogheda and Howth and Dublin City Centre. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>To support this objective, the project is proposing infrastructure that would enable the operation of both a DART shuttle service on the Howth Branch line as required, and/or a direct through service to/from Dublin City Centre, allowing for the capacity and frequency of DART+ services on both the Northern, and Howth Branch, lines to be maximised. This proposal has been developed to remove the crossing conflicts currently experienced at Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station which limit the frequency and capacity that can be achieved on the Northern Line. The proposed infrastructure will not prevent a direct service running on the Howth Branch. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Final operational decisions will be made at a later stage and are subject to passenger demand and train frequency on the Northern Line and Howth Branch.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":166,"answer":167},"How many extra services will be provided by DART+ Coastal North as a result of the infrastructure upgrade?",{"html":168},"\u003Cp>The scale of increase in services will vary across the extents of DART+ Coastal North and will be directly dependent on passenger demand over time. However, to provide the maximum  level of service envisaged by the project, the following increase in services is currently expected to be delivered by the DART+ Coastal North project across the duration of 3-hour peak AM peak period for inbound / southbound services to Dublin City Centre:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Drogheda to Malahide: 11 to 24 trains\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>Malahide to Clongriffin: 20 to 30 trains\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>Clongriffin to Howth Junction & Donaghmede: 20 to 36 trains\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>Howth Branch: 9 to 18 trains\u003C/li>\n  \u003Cli>Howth Junction & Donaghmede to Connolly: 29 to 36 trains\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>This overall increase is inclusive of DART, Commuter and Enterprise services. The AM and PM peak periods will be extended from 1 hour to 3 hour periods (i.e. 7-10 AM and 4-7 PM).\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>It is important to note that the proposed increases in services are not something that will come into effect immediately upon the delivery of the DART+ Coastal North project. There will be different phases of timetable development that will be gradually introduced as the project builds towards that maximum level of service. The operational detail behind each of these phases has not been worked through at this stage in the project planning and development. Any substantial timetable change will go through a Public Consultation process of its own organised by the NTA known as the Timetable Customer Consultation Process where members of the public will have an opportunity to voice their opinions on the proposed changes.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":170,"answer":171},"What improvements will be made to Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station for passengers changing trains?",{"html":172},"\u003Cp>As a direct result of feedback received during Public Consultation No, 1 in addition to further project consideration and requirements, significant upgrades to Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station are now proposed to provide a more accessible, user friendly and customer focused station for all rail users. Full details of the proposed plans are shared in the Public Consultation No. 2 project documentation.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The proposed works will involve modifying the entrances to provide a more accessible, user friendly and customer focused station for all rail users, as well as improving the connection to the surrounding areas of Donaghmede and Kilbarrack. Upgrades to the existing footbridge and connections to the centre platforms will also be carried out, as well as upgrades to lighting, signage, and finishes throughout.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Customer experience, accessibility, safety, and security will be central to the development of Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station, and we also acknowledge the feedback we have been given to date about this station experience and its current facilities. These concerns are something the DART+ Coastal North project is taking very seriously, and the project team is looking at what solutions can be provided for in both the long and short term. \u003Cbr> \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":174,"answer":175},"What is the timeline for commencement of construction?",{"html":176},"\u003Cp>The commencement of construction is contingent on the timely securing of the Railway Order. DART+ Coastal North remains in the later stages of the concept phase; this will be followed by the preliminary design phase and statutory planning approval phases. When the necessary permissions have been granted, the detailed design and procurement phases will be undertaken. Pending further approvals, the contract award for the construction phase is anticipated to be in 2025/26.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":178,"answer":179},"Is the construction of any new stations included in the DART+ Coastal North project?",{"html":180},"\u003Cp>The delivery of new stations is not included as part of the DART+ Coastal North project and will be progressed by Iarnród Éireann as separate projects. The ‘Preferred Option’ will not preclude any future development of any potential new stations, such as that proposed at Bettystown in the East Meath Local Area Plan, along the Northern Line. As a direct result of feedback received during Public Consultation No. 1, the DART+ Coastal North project will now deliver some signifcant station enhancements at Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station. These significant modification works are proposed to both improve the passenger experience generally, and to develop the station to better serve as an interchange station. The works will involve modifying the entrances to provide a more accessible, user friendly and customer focused station for all rail users, as well as improve the connection to the surrounding areas of Donaghmede and Kilbarrack. Upgrades will also take place to the footbridge and connections to the centre platforms, as well as the lighting, signage, and finishes throughout.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":182,"answer":183},"My house backs on to the existing railway line. What will the impact be for me both during construction and when the service comes into operation?",{"html":184},"\u003Cp>Construction Phase \u003Cbr>Given that the line between Connolly and Howth is already electrified, potential construction impacts (from limited interventions) will likely be minimal. Some site-specific interventions will be required between Howth Junction & Donaghmede and Drogheda stations, associated with increasing the rail capacity. Between Malahide and Drogheda, DART+ Coastal North will involve the erection of overhead line infrastructure to facilitate the running of electric trains. In order to maintain services for our customers during the day, the majority of the construction works along the railway line itself will take place at night. Works outside of the live railway corridor can progress during the day i.e. modifications to bridges, construction of substations, construction compounds. Every effort will be made to avoid, reduce, and/or mitigate negative impacts, however, there is likely to be some disturbance experienced for those near the railway line caused by noise, lighting or erected fencing/hoarding associated with the construction activities. \u003Cbr>The types of construction work required at each specific location will determine the type of impact that may affect the area/your property. However, there will be general linear works required, such as: \u003Cbr>- Overhead electrification equipment along the full extent of the railway line from Malahide to Drogheda. This will be similar in style to that currently used on the existing DART network.  \u003Cbr>- Modifications to the existing rail bridges such as modifications to the structure, track lowering or a combination of both. \u003Cbr>- Substations will be required at intervals along the rail line to provide power to the network. \u003Cbr>- Signalling upgrades and additional signalling will be required as part of the upgraded infrastructure.  \u003Cbr>- Interfaces with existing utilities, roads, boundary treatments, drainage works, vegetation management and other ancillary works will be required. Prior to the commencement of construction works, a dedicated Community Liaison Officer will be appointed to communicate details of all upcoming works and to oversee the implementation of all required mitigation measures, thereby minimising any potential disruption resulting from the works. \u003Cbr>During the construction phase, residents living in close proximity to any planned works will receive ongoing communication in advance of significant works - i.e. piling or ground penetrating surveys. \u003Cbr> \u003Cbr>Operational Phase \u003Cbr>During the operational phase, levels of greenhouse gas emissions are likely to reduce significantly, with a positive impact on climate change. The engine noise from an electric train is also significantly quieter than a diesel train.  At certain locations, existing bridge parapets will be raised to prevent people from accidentally or otherwise falling onto Overhead Line Equipment. All likely significant effects during both the construction and operational phases will be identified and detailed in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report. This will include a detailed schedule of mitigation measures identified to reduce those potential effects.  \u003Cbr> \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":186,"answer":187},"This route goes through some of the most biodiverse locations in the country, how do I know that these environments will not be detrimentally impacted by construction?",{"html":188},"\u003Cp>A specialist Environmental Impact Assessment team has been engaged as part of the overall Multi-Disciplinary Consultant contract. This team will collaborate with the engineering design team during the design development. The environmental team will contribute to assessing the various project options. Prior to the submission of the Railway Order Application, the design development will also be presented to the public at two public consultation events during the project, this is the first of these consultations. This will enable the general public to review and comment on the proposals and provide meaningful feedback on the project, including any environmental issues that they consider important. A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment Report will be prepared based on the Preliminary Design. The project will also be subject to Appropriate Assessment consideration, as required under the Habitats Directive, which will assess any potential effects on the conservation objectives of European sites.  Therefore, at Railway Order Application stage, the project will have assessed the impact of the project on the environment and will provide avoidance, remedy, and mitigation measures to reduce environmental impacts during the construction and operational phases. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":190,"answer":191},"Are upgrades or improvements to car and bike parking facilities at stations being included in the DART+ Coastal North project works?",{"html":192},"\u003Cp>Additional parking facilities at stations are not included as part of DART+ Coastal North's project scope, which is focussed on the development of infrastructure to facilitate the increase in train frequency on both the Northern and Howth Branch lines. However, separately to the DART+ Coastal North project and outside the railway order, Iarnród Éireann are progressing a number of projects including the Multimodal Interchange Project, DART Station Enhancement Project and, Carparks Programme aimed at developing stations to support future needs.   \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The Multimodal Interchange Project will assess all stations throughout the network with a view of implementing its strategy at stations where there is need for modifications that will have an impact on multimodal travel and station access. The project will assess a variety of multimodal options at stations including but not limited to the provision of secure bicycle parking and shared mobility services. Iarnród Éireann are working to progress and finalise the Multimodal Interchange Strategy before the end of Q4 2023 with a view to developing an Implementation Plan subject to funding constraints. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Additionally, the DART Station Enhancements Project, currently out to tender for consultant support, will review the future requirements at DART stations and the first phase of this project (design principles guidelines and strategy and implementation plan) is scheduled for completion in Q2 2024. Further stages and roll out of the project will be subject to funding.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":194,"answer":195},"When will the Railway Order be submitted?",{"html":196},"\u003Cp>It is currently anticipated that the Railway Order application will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval in Autumn/Winter of 2023, although exact dates for this submission are yet to be confirmed.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":198,"answer":199},"When will we know what the future timetables will be?",{"html":200},"\u003Cp>It is important to note that the DART+ Coastal North Project scope includes the construction of infrastructure to enable a planned increase in service, capacity and frequency on the Northern Line, inclusive of the Howth Branch Line. The development of timetables will progress separately to the DART+ Coastal North Project under the responsibility of Iarnrod Éireann Operations Division. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The development of service timetabling is an entirely operational procedure, which will be carried out separately to this DART+ Coastal North Project. Future timetables will be directly determined by future passenger demand. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Every substantial timetable change goes through a public consultation process of its own, organised by the NTA, known as the Timetable Customer Consultation Process. Iarnród Éireann are required by the National Transport Authority (NTA) to publish timetable proposals online for customers to comment on and input to the service proposals. This process is usually live for approximately 3 weeks and takes place a number of months in advance of the proposed timetable changes. Once all inputs are received, they are compiled and reviewed in conjunction with the NTA. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Iarnród Éireann will provide updates on changes to timetables as they are developed over the coming years.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":202,"answer":203},"Where will the compounds be located through the construction period?",{"html":204},"\u003Cp>The preliminary design process for DART+ Coastal North has Identified a variety of locations which may be used as construction compounds to allow for the construction of the project. Details of compound locations are included in Annex 1: Schematic Layout Drawings, and in Annex 3.2 Technical Optioneering Report: Electrification of the Northern Line between Malahide and Drogheda, available through the project website www.dartplus.ie\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":206,"answer":207},"Where will the ESB substations be located?",{"html":208},"\u003Cp>The preliminary design process for DART+ Coastal North has established that 8 new electrical substations will be required at key locations along the rail line between Malahide and Drogheda to provide power to the network. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The proposed substation locations are identified within the Schematic Layout Drawings in Annex 1 of the PC2 Supporting Documents, available through the project website www.dartplus.ie. The proposed substation locations along the line include:\u003Cbr>-    Drogheda\u003Cbr>-    Bettystown\u003Cbr>-    Gormanston\u003Cbr>-    Balbriggan\u003Cbr>-    Skerries North\u003Cbr>-    Skerries South\u003Cbr>-    Rush and Lusk\u003Cbr>-    Donabate\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":210,"answer":211},"Will access to private 3rd party land be required?",{"html":212},"\u003Cp>Some access to third party lands will be required. Should this be required formal contact will be made with the relevant landowner and permission will be sought for access. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":214,"answer":215},"Will measures be included to limit Noise Impacts?",{"html":216},"\u003Cp>A noise assessment report will be undertaken as part of the EIA, and if deemed necessary, the design may include noise mitigation measures, e.g. natural screening, noise fences/barriers and landscaping.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Potential construction impacts from limited interventions will likely be minimal given that the line between Connolly and Howth is already electrified. Some site-specific interventions will be required between Howth Junction & Donaghmede and Drogheda stations, associated with increasing the rail capacity. Between Malahide and Drogheda, DART+ Coastal North will involve the erection of overhead line infrastructure to facilitate the running of electric trains. In order to maintain services for our customers during the day, the majority of the construction works along the railway line itself will take place at night. Works outside of the live railway corridor can progress during the day i.e. modifications to bridges, construction of substations, construction compounds. Every effort will be made to avoid, reduce, and/or mitigate negative impacts through the construction and operational phases.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":218,"answer":219},"Will this project definitely go ahead?",{"html":220},"\u003Cp>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. The project will go ahead subject to receipt of funding, granting of the Railway Order approval from An Bord Pleanála and approval of the Project Business Case by Government. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":222,"answer":223},"Is this project dependent on DART Underground going ahead?",{"html":224},"\u003Cp>No, the project does not depend on any other project in order to advance. The project will link Iarnród Éireann, DART, Dublin Bus, Luas, MetroLink and Dublin Bike services to create a fully integrated public transport system in the Greater Dublin Area. The project team is working closely with the relevant agencies in order to ensure that all current and planned projects can be developed with all due consideration of each other. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":226,"answer":227},"How close will the new tracks / OHLE / sub-station be to my house/back wall?",{"html":228},"\u003Cp>In general, the track layout along the route will remain predominantly unaltered, therefore trains will be no closer to property boundaries than at present. Track modifications are proposed at specific locations such as Drogheda MacBride, Malahide, Clongriffin and Howth Junction & Donaghmede stations. These required works are currently expected to remain within the extents of the existing railway corridor.  \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The OHLE infrastructure will follow the alignment of the existing and modified tracks, remaining within the extents of the railway corridor.  \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>The locations of proposed modifications to the existing railway infrastructure, and locations of substations and construction compounds are included in the DART+ Coastal North Brochure and Option Selection - Preferred Option Report and Schematic Layouts available through the project website www.dartplus.ie\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer will be available throughout the process to ensure you are regularly updated on the current proposals and your views are taken into consideration as we progress the design. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":230,"answer":231},"Will trees need to be cut down?",{"html":232},"\u003Cp>Yes, some trees will need to be cut down to accommodate the new overhead line electrical equipment (OHLE) and infrastructure. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report will consider this issue in detail and provide mitigation measures. Trees and branches from trees overreaching into Iarnród Éireann property will need to be cut down where they may come into contact with OHLE and trains. In cases where land is being acquired it is likely that trees within this land will be felled. All 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. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":234,"answer":235},"Will there be an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR)?",{"html":236},"\u003Cp>Yes, an EIAR will be prepared for the project which will contain detailed analysis of the potential impacts of the proposed project on the existing environment and will include sufficient information to allow the consenting authority, in this case, An Bord Pleanála, to decide on whether consent should be given to the project. \u003Cbr>The EIAR will present a description of the existing environment, an assessment of the potential impacts of the scheme, will set out measures to avoid or reduce any adverse impacts and will identify any remaining residual effects. The impacts will be assessed and presented in line with the environmental topics, and in accordance with Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 as amended and the EIA Directive 2014/52/EU. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":238,"answer":239},"How/Where will the process of the Public Consultation be communicated?",{"html":240},"\u003Cp>Information on the DART+ Coastal North project and Public Consultation can be found on www.dartplus.ie. All public consultations are launched in the first instance via press release and further highlighted through in-station posters and a leaflet drop along the project route, briefing of elected representatives, email notification to the project database, targeted digital advertising and advertising in print media and on radio where appropriate. Public feedback will be accepted during all stages of the design development and can be submitted through the project website, e-mail address, phone or by written correspondence. For further details see the How to Engage / Contact Us section on www.dartplus.ie. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":242,"answer":243},"How will the project interact with Active Travel provisions?",{"html":244},"\u003Cp>Where practicable, DART+ Coastal North will integrate with cycleways, greenways, and other active travel facilities proposed in existing and draft future transport strategies. The DART+ Project Team is actively engaging with the sponsoring authorities for these projects to ensure due consideration is given to them. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":246,"answer":247},"Are any surveys being done on the DART+ Coastal North route?",{"html":248},"\u003Cp>A wide range of surveys are required as part of the DART+ Coastal North project. These include, but are not limited to, Topographical Surveys, Ecological and other environmental Surveys, Ground Investigation Surveys.  \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Should you have any queries or concerns regarding these surveys please contact the Community Liaison Officer for this Project Garry Keegan at 01 233 4515 or by email at DARTCoastalNorth@irishrail.ie \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":250,"answer":251},"I am a regular commuter between Drogheda and Connolly, what benefits will DART+ Coastal North deliver for me?",{"html":252},"\u003Cp>The DART+ Coastal North project, as part of the DART+ Programme, will deliver an improved electrified network, with increased passenger capacity and enhanced train service between Dublin City Centre and Drogheda. The project will provide the infrastructure to deliver a planned increase in train frequency from 11 to 24 trains, and a planned increase in passenger capacity from 12,500 to 26,600 passengers, for the new 3-hour AM peak period for inbound / southbound services from Drogheda to Dublin City Centre.  \u003Cbr>DART+ Coastal North will provide a sustainable, electrified and a more reliable train service. The electrification of the Northern Line to Drogheda will support building a sustainable and connected City Region and facilitate the transition to a low carbon and climate resilient society. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":254,"answer":255},"I am a regular commuter between Howth and Connolly, what benefits will DART+ Coastal North deliver for me?",{"html":256},"\u003Cp>The DART+ Coastal North project, as part of the DART+ Programme, will deliver an improved electrified network, with increased passenger capacity and enhanced train service between Dublin City Centre and Howth.  The project will provide the infrastructure to deliver a planned increase in train frequency from 9 to 18 trains, and a planned increase in passenger capacity from 10,800 to 21,600 passengers, for the new 3-hour AM peak period for inbound / southbound services from Howth to Dublin City Centre. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>To achieve the peak capacity increases proposed by the DART+ Programme, DART+ Coastal North will seek to implement a reconfiguration of Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station and the removal of existing train crossing conflicts currently experienced at the station. The Preferred Option will enable the operation of both a DART shuttle service on the Howth Branch line as required, and/or a direct through service to/from Dublin City Centre, allowing for the capacity and frequency of DART+ services on both the Northern, and Howth Branch, lines to be maximised. The removal of crossing conflicts at Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station will also result in a more frequent and reliable Howth Branch DART service with frequency of service potentially doubling to deliver a service every ten minutes each way. The scale of increase in services will vary across the extents of DART+ Coastal North and will be directly dependent on passenger demand over time. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>Should future passenger demand warrant the operation of a DART Shuttle Service on the Howth Branch Line, passengers travelling to/from Dublin City Centre will be required to interchange between services at Howth Junction and Donaghmede Station where a variety of significant modification works are proposed to both improve the passenger experience generally, and to develop the station to better serve as an interchange station. The works will involve modifying the entrances to provide a more accessible, user friendly and customer focused station for all rail users, as well as to improve the connection to the surrounding areas of Donaghmede and Kilbarrack. Upgrades will also take place to the footbridge and connections to the centre platforms, as well as the lighting, signage, and finishes throughout. The interchange at Howth Junction & Donaghmede station will be facilitated by an increase in Northern Line stopping trains which will minimise wait times for connecting services.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>At this stage it is too early to say exactly what wait times would be, when interchanging at Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station, or indeed what the exact journey time from stations on the Howth Branch into Dublin City Centre will be. It is expected that sectional journey times (e.g. Bayside to Howth Stations) along the Howth Branch Line will remain similar to current journey times experienced by DART passengers, and that any adjustment to journey times from the Howth Branch into the city centre will be as a result of the interchange between services at Howth Junction & Donaghmede Station which is expected to be minimal. Changes to journey times will be somewhat offset by increased service frequency resulting in more choice for passengers and reduced wait times to commence DART journeys in the first instance. \u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>It is also important to note that the operation of a DART shuttle service is not something that would come into effect immediately upon the delivery of the DART+ Coastal North project. There will be different phases of timetable development that will be gradually introduced as the project builds towards maximum level of service. The operational detail behind each of these phases has not been worked through at this early stage in the project planning and development. Any substantial timetable change will go through a Public Consultation process of its own organised by the National Transport Authority (NTA) known as the Timetable Customer Consultation Process.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":258,"answer":259},"How will the Drogheda capacity enhancement be achieved?",{"html":260},"\u003Cp>DART+ Coastal North is seeking to extend the existing electrified rail network from Malahide to Drogheda as well as increasing rail capacity on the Northern Line between Dublin City Centre and Drogheda MacBride Station, including the Howth Branch. This increased rail capacity can be achieved by implementing an extended electrified railway network with high-capacity DART trains and an increased frequency of train services. In addition, the DART+ Coastal North project requires that some track modifications are implemented, including the provision of turnback facilities at Malahide, Clongriffin and Howth Junction & Donaghmede Stations. These modifications are essential to facilitate the increase in train services by allowing trains to be turned back clear of continuing services and to allow for a higher frequency and a more reliable service. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":262,"answer":263},"How will more trains on the Howth Branch affect vehicles and pedestrians/cyclists waiting at the level crossings?",{"html":264},"\u003Cp>The assessment of the impact of proposed upgrades to the Howth Branch on pedestrians and cyclists at level crossings has shown the change to be slightly positive.  \u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Further detail on the modelling can be viewed in the \u003Ca href=\"/en-ie/projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-public-consultation-no-1-useful-material-and-downloads\">PC1 published materials\u003C/a>. \u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":266,"answer":267},"Are level crossings likely to be affected by DART+ Coastal North?",{"html":268},"\u003Cp>An existing user worked Level Crossing (XB001) located to the south of Donabate Station is to be closed as a part of DART+ Coastal North. This is as a result of the introduction of electrification and increase in train frequency on the Northern Line which significantly increases the safety risks at this level crossing to users of the crossing and to rail traffic. Level crossings on the Howth Branch are not currently expected to close, initial assessment of the four existing level crossings on the Howth Branch line has indicated that these level crossings can continue to operate while still providing a more efficient and optimised service overall.\u003C/p>",{"__typename":125,"question":270,"answer":271},"Can you advise the proposed DART journey times from Drogheda to Dublin City Centre resulting from the proposed changes to the services?",{"html":272},"\u003Cp>Whilst the technical characteristics of the new DART+ Fleet are still being finalised it is expected a circa 50 minutes all stop run time should be comfortably achieved.  Today, the commuter service running between Drogheda and Connolly varies but it can take over one hour. \u003C/p>","Frequently Asked Questions","projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/frequently-asked-questions",{"items":276},[277],{"_system_":278},{"codename":279},"yes",{"items":281},[282],{"_system_":283},{"codename":279},{"title":285,"subpages":286},"Public Consultation Round 1",[287,291,294,297,300,303,306,309,312],{"slug":288,"title":289,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/key-infrastructural-elements","Key Infrastructural Elements","page",{"slug":292,"title":293,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-route-map","DART+ Coastal North Route Map",{"slug":295,"title":296,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/benefits-of-dart-coastal-north","Benefits of DART+ Coastal North",{"slug":298,"title":299,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-emerging-preferred-options","DART+ Coastal North Emerging Preferred Option",{"slug":301,"title":302,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-public-consultation-process","DART+ Coastal North Public Consultation Process",{"slug":304,"title":305,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-public-consultation-no-1-useful","DART+ Coastal North Public Consultation No.1 Useful Material and Downloads",{"slug":307,"title":308,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/dart-coastal-north-next-steps","DART+ Coastal North Next Steps",{"slug":310,"title":311,"type":290},"projects/dart-north/public-consultation-round-1/how-to-engage-contact-us","How to Engage/ Contact Us",{"slug":274,"title":273,"type":290},1777641961708]