Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 December 2015
10. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will install a tunnel or bridge at the Pelletstown and Ashtown rail crossing to deal with the major traffic problems it is creating. [45001/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). I understand it is proposed to close all level crossings on the Maynooth line including the crossing at Ashtown.
I understand that preliminary engineering analysis of the infrastructural works that would be required to facilitate these level crossing closures has been carried out. This analysis includes options for bridges over or under the railway, together with road diversions and road closures which may be required.
There is a limited amount of Exchequer funding available for enhancement of railway infrastructure at the current time and, given the competing demands for scarce resources, it has not been possible to provide funding specifically for the closure of the crossing at Ashtown. The current layout of road design is likely to be in place for the foreseeable future. The immediate priority for investment in the rail network is for ongoing maintenance and renewal of existing assets, in order to achieve 'steady state' condition of the network, and the Government has allocated over €140 million this year for this purpose. It is envisaged that funding will become available for the closure of level crossings during the lifetime of the Capital Plan 2016-2021.
