Irish Rail has opened an essential phase in the development of the Dublin DART+ programme, launching a formal market engagement process aimed at securing the expertise and capacity needed to deliver one of the most ambitious rail modernisation projects in the country’s history.
At the core of this process are pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs) for two key single-supplier design-and-build frameworks. These will cover the full scope of electrification works and associated civil and structural infrastructure across the expanded DART+ network, works that are vital to enabling the shift to a larger, electrified commuter rail system across Greater Dublin.
In parallel, three standalone PQQs have also been issued for major components of the programme. These include the DART+ South West rail systems, which involve complex works such as four-tracking between ParkWest and Heuston Station, and the reconfiguration of Heuston’s track layout; the creation of a new Spencer Dock Station in the city centre; and upgrades at Connolly station, including a new entrance on Preston Street.
Irish Rail is also preparing a framework PQQ for signalling works and an additional PQQ for the future DART+ depot, which is progressing under a separate Railway Order.
This stage of the procurement process is crucial. It sets the foundation for the partnerships and technical collaborations that will underpin the physical delivery of DART+. It also signals to the construction, engineering, and rail systems markets that Irish Rail is actively building momentum behind the programme — not in abstract, but through defined work packages now entering the competitive bidding phase.
With Railway Orders already secured for the DART+ West and South West corridors, enabling works are expected to begin in 2026. Subject to funding and statutory approvals, contract awards for these workstreams are targeted for the end of that year.
The scale of the Dublin DART+ programme means the market engagement process is not only an opportunity for contractors to contribute to a landmark infrastructure upgrade but also a significant step toward delivering a more sustainable and efficient transport network for Ireland’s capital. The increased capacity and electrification at the heart of this programme will benefit commuters and communities alike, providing faster, greener journeys across the Greater Dublin Area.
For suppliers, contractors, and infrastructure specialists, the message is clear: Dublin DART+ is moving from planning to delivery, and now is the time to engage.
DART + programme
The Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) system currently spans a 53-km coastal route with 31 stations, connecting Malahide and Howth in the north to Greystones in the south. Ambitious plans are now underway to expand this network to 150 km, which will significantly transform public transport options throughout the Greater Dublin Area (GDA).
Central to this transformation is the DART+ programme, a comprehensive modernisation initiative that aims not only to upgrade the existing DART service but also to revolutionise the broader regional rail network. The programme will introduce more frequent, fully electrified, and state-of-the-art rail services, improving connectivity to smaller towns and communities that will gain easier and more direct access to Dublin and its surrounding areas.
The programme is made up of five key projects, including the acquisition of a new fleet of electric trains designed to operate across the extended network. In a landmark agreement signed in December 2021, Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) partnered with Alstom to secure up to 750 X’trapolis carriages, equivalent to 150 five-car trainsets—the largest contract of its kind for Irish Rail. The initial firm order, valued at EUR 270 million, covers 19 five-car trains, comprising six fully electric units and 13 battery-electric multiple units. These new trains are scheduled to enter service by 2025.
Beyond rolling stock procurement, the DART+ programme involves four major infrastructure projects to broaden the network’s reach across Greater Dublin. One extension will push westwards from the city centre along the Maynooth and M3 Parkway line, while another targets the south-western corridor, servicing Hazelhatch and Celbridge stations.
Two additional projects focus on coastal expansions. One heading north to Drogheda, 56 km from Dublin’s centre, and the other extending south to Greystones, located just beyond Bray and 24 kilometres south of the city.
Early rounds of public consultation for these expansions have already taken place, representing a vital phase in the planning and development journey of this ambitious programme.
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