New Momentum for DART+ Coastal North: Cabinet Approves Significant Funding for Regional Rail Expansion
It was a busy day in the Cabinet as ministers moved to approve a significant investment aimed at modernizing how we travel. For those of us living in **Louth**, the most welcome news is the direct support for the DART+ Coastal North project, which is now on track for a faster delivery thanks to this fresh injection of capital.
Connecting Communities
This isn’t just about single projects; it is part of a wider “Shared Island” vision to boost connections across the country. As part of this, the Government has committed a €190m contribution toward a large-scale rail infrastructure program stretching from Derry to Belfast and down to Dublin. The goal is ambitious: by 2030, officials want to see line capacities increased and travel times between our capital and Belfast trimmed down to under two hours.
Crucially for our local area, this investment covers essential upgrades on the tracks north of Malahide and at Clongriffin. These works are vital because they directly facilitate the DART+ expansion, effectively bringing the electrified rail network closer to our doorstep here in **Louth**.
The funding doesn’t stop there. An additional €35m has been set aside to support the hourly Dublin-to-Belfast service, which has already proven incredibly popular, seeing a 40% jump in passenger numbers since it launched.
📋 Wider Shared Island Initiatives
Beyond the rail improvements, the Cabinet approved a broad range of supports that will impact various sectors:
- Renewable Energy: A new development scheme for ports to support offshore wind assembly.
- Industrial Sustainability: €20m allocated for a challenge fund focusing on the green economy and climate tech.
- Regional Growth: Ongoing support for the Ulster Canal project, cross-border healthcare, and creative industries.
Welcome to Wiggle Worms!
Kids Gardening in Ireland
WiggleWorms Ireland helps schools and families start gardens, wormeries, and wildlife projects.
Turn Screen Time into Grow Time!
Let’s make little hands into creative hands. Muddy hands, big smiles, and green fingers—the ultimate guide to gardening with kids.
Start Growing Today
