DART+ West Next Steps
The option selection and design development has resulted in a proposed design development that forms the basis of the Railway Order application. The feedback received during public consultation no. 2 (including the local Ashtown consultation) has been considered in the design submitted in the Railway Order application. A Public Consultation No. 2 Findings Report has been prepared and included in the Railway Order application documentation.
View of typical section of twin track electrified rail line
The Railway Order Process
A Railway Order application was made to An Bord Pleanála on the 29th July 2022. A Railway Order application is broadly similar to the planning process, which most people are familiar with.
The Railway Order application process is set out in the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 (as amended and substituted) and the application was made to An Bord Pleanála. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) details the nature and extent of the proposed project and identify and describe the impacts on the environment. It will also detail measures which will be taken to avoid, reduce and/or monitor these impacts.
An Bord Pleanála will conduct a statutory public consultation between 05th August and 28th October 2022, where the public can make submissions on the application, for consideration by An Bord Pleanála as part of the decision-making process.
Any person or body may make a submission or observation in writing to the Board in relation to the railway order application including the EIAR and the Compulsory Purchase land requirements.
An Bord Pleanála, at its discretion, can conduct an oral hearing as part of the Railway Order application process, to provide the public with further participation in the decision-making process for this project. At an oral hearing the DART+ West project team will provide responses to submissions and will be available for questioning.
Property Acquisition
DART+ West project will predominantly seek to confine the railway improvement works within the existing railway corridor. However, where interventions and modifications are required outside of the existing railway corridor (such as at the level crossings, the proposed Spencer Dock station and the proposed depot) some land acquisition will be required.
Consultations with property owners have been undertaken and continue. As part of the Railway Order application, specific information has been issued to owners and occupiers that are referenced and for which property acquisition is required.
If your property is likely to be directly affected by the works you should already have heard from us. Our Community Liaison Officer remains available throughout the Railway Order application process to ensure we address any issue you may have or to clarify any queries. Please contact us as necessary.