Project Specific FAQs

Yes, it is anticipated that there will be road and bridge closures. The timing and duration of any closures will be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the location and the complexity of the infrastructure works required at that specific location. Details of any road closures including anticipated durations and temporary diversion routes will be developed as part and presented in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR).
 

Vehicular bridges or underpasses may be provided at certain locations, however it is not anticipated that there will be the same level of replacement infrastructure for each level crossing. The design process will determine the appropriate replacement infrastructure for each level crossing having regard to current conditions such as existing road journey times and community connectivity. 

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.

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.

For safety and maintenance reasons, no new trees would be planted close to Overhead electricity lines. A landscape and visual assessment 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.