Dublin MetroLink Airport-City Centre Rail Granted Planning Permission

Dublin's long-awaited Metrolink project, an 18.8km underground rail line connecting Swords to Charlemont via Dublin Airport, has received planning permission, marking a major step forward for the city's transport infrastructure. The project, estimated to cost €11 billion, has been approved by An Coimisiún Pleanala, which also authorized compulsory land acquisition necessary for construction. Although previous metro proposals spent over €100 million without progressing to construction, this latest approval brings the project closer to reality, with anticipated train frequencies of every three minutes during peak times. Transport Infrastructure Ireland has indicated that the Metrolink could open in phases, with the first section to O'Connell Street projected for late 2035 and completion to Charlemont in 2036, pending government approval and tender processes. Alongside the Metrolink, Dublin is also overhauling its bus network with the launch of new routes in October to improve connectivity, while the Royal Canal Greenway has expanded, offering enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure to support greener transportation options in the city. These combined efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to modernizing Dublin's transport system to meet growing demand and sustainability goals.