Is it heading on the right track?
Deputy James Geoghegan has been highlighting the need to extend the Luas Red Line from The Point through Ringsend and Irishtown, via a planned docklands bridge across the Liffey. Construction of the latter is expected to begin by 2027.
Geoghegan has called for a common-sense approach to delivering public transport. Highlighting that “10,000 more people will live in the area in 10 years” time, and that “it is easier to build infrastructure in places that are less densely populated.” He noted that it could save the taxpayer significant sums by taking the initiative now, rather than waiting until almost 2040.
The Luas Ringsend/Poolbeg extension has been highlighted for ‘possible’ acceleration as part of a National Development Plan review. Transport Infrastructure Ireland, who are responsible for managing and improving the country’s national road and light rail networks, are to undertake a feasibility review of this project. The review is set to be finalised by the end of the summer.
Past Records
Don’t get too excited, though. “It is easy to make promises – it is hard work to keep them” admitted British Prime Minister Boris Johnson (2019-2022). The Luas red and green lines came into existence in 2004, yet, a subsequent plan to build a bridge across the river Dodder, argued the Green Party, should only be built as part of a scheme to extend the Luas to Ringsend and Poolbeg. This idea was debated, but never materialised. In 2015 a plan was published by The National Transport Authority (NTA) which called for an extension of the Luas Red line to Poolbeg/Ringsend, with further lines serving Bray, Finglas and Lucan. It also included the Metro South from St. Stephen’s Green to Brides Glen, which would link with Metro North. The latter was expected to be operational in 2026. This was then put forward to sometime in the 2030s. It is currently in limbo.
Problems Facing Urban Areas
The proposed Luas line to Ringsend/Poolbeg is an important transport initiative. But, it also highlights some of the challenges that come with urban density. In particular population growth, which Deputy Geoghegan alluded to in his statement. This increases the demand for services, including social, healthcare, and housing. There will be environmental impacts too. Yet, they are challenges we can meet, once they are planned for appropriately in advance.
