A project bringing passenger trains back to Navan, Co Meath, before 2035 is set to begin.
It will deliver a new rail line stretching approximately 20km from the existing terminal station at M3 Parkway, north of Dunboyne, to Navan.
This will make a direct Navan to Dublin city train feasible as the busy commuter town continues to grow.
Iarnród Éireann’s line is expected to serve new stations including Dunshaughlin and Kilmessan along its route.
Subject to planning and funding approvals, the project delivery phase is envisaged between 2030 and 2035 under the NTA’s Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy.
The first phase of this programme will see scope and design development, and route option selection, developed over the next two years.
It will include public consultation on the emerging preferred route proposal and will prepare for a Railway Order (equivalent of planning permission) application to An Bord Pleanála in 2027.
Funding for the project is provided by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).
In a statement, Ianród Éireann said people living in catchment areas, including Navan, Kilmessan and Dunshaughlin, will benefit from faster more sustainable travel options.
The low-carbon Dublin to Navan train will also prevent further traffic on roads and support population growth and economic development in the corridor, it said.
Ianród Éireann suggested the enabling transport-oriented urban compact growth along the corridor will unlock regeneration opportunities and more effective use of land in the eastern region.
Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann Jim Meade said: “Making rail the backbone of Ireland’s sustainable transport network means connecting new communities to our rail network, as well as enhancing existing services.
“With the Navan rail line integral to the NTA’s Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy, we look forward to developing the plans and advancing this key project to enable more commuters in Co Meath choose sustainable transport for their travel and commuting needs.”
