Barry Kenny from Irish Rail stated, 'It is in the NTA's Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy. It's the early 2030s that it's earmarked to be completed, but we are starting the project.' He outlines that the project is entering the planning phase soon, engaging with the public, and seeking the necessary railway order, indicating an organized approach to revitalizing the rail services.
Mark Gleeson noted concerns about rebuilding plans that were already established, saying, 'We welcome the news that consultants are to be appointed to commence the very initial stages of planning for reopening Dunboyne Navan. There was already, in the late 2000s, a draft railway works order prepared; it appears wasteful to throw this away and start from scratch.'
Environment Minister Eamon Ryan mentioned the timeline for the project, stating, 'provided funding requirements are met, it is envisaged the project will be delivered by 2031, 2032 or 2033.' This highlights the urgency of securing funds to meet the projected completion dates.
Gleeson suggested alternatives, proposing, 'As it will be the mid-2030s at best, assuming financial appraisals are positive, other options such as use of the battery Dart fleet to link Drogheda and Navan using the existing line should be looked at as an interim measure.' This reflects a proactive approach to address immediate transportation needs.
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