Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 May 2014
216. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the planning application for the bus rapid transit route between Swords and Dublin city centre is expected to be made; the projected life-span of this project in its proposed form; if this route will be complemented with a rail link when circumstances allow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21608/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for developing public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including Metro, Rail and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects. The design and planning of BRT is therefore a matter for it.
In its Integrated Implementation Plan 2013 - 2018 the NTA has proposed a BRT Scheme as an interim solution to the short term demand needs of the Swords/Airport corridor pending the development of a higher capacity rail solution on the corridor. The NTA considers that BRT would complement any future rail based solution and would continue to perform strongly in terms of passenger usage.
The NTA is also undertaking a technical consultancy to assess the long term rail transport requirements of the North Dublin/Fingal corridor, extending from Finglas to Malahide and including Dublin Airport and Swords. This review will examine existing proposals including Metro North as well as other options for a rail-based transport solution to meet the area's needs in the long term. I expect to have a report on the outcome of this review by the end of the year.
I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply as regards the planning timeframe. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.
