Plans to significantly enhance rail capacity between Bray and Greystones in County Wicklow have moved forward with the launch of a public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Option for the DART+ Coastal South Stage 1 project.

The scheme, led by Iarnród Éireann on behalf of the National Transport Authority (NTA), will deliver a 50% increase in service frequency — rising from two to three DARTs per hour in each direction — through key construction and infrastructure works along the line.

The works proposed under the project include the upgrade of Ennis Lane Level Crossing to a CCTV-controlled system, track alignment modifications between Bray and Greystones, and the shortening of Platform 1 at Bray (Daly) Station to accommodate a new track crossover. This new configuration will allow trains to pass more efficiently within the station, improving service reliability while maintaining capacity for full-length DARTs. General upgrades to existing signalling, telecoms, and power systems will also be delivered as part of the construction package.

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Public consultation is now open and will run until December 4. Members of the public are invited to review the proposals and submit feedback to assist in refining the design. Full details, including how to participate, are available at dartplus.ie. Consultation events will take place locally, including a public display at Greystones Library on October 23 (3pm–6.30pm), a public engagement event at Little Flower Hall, Bray on October 29 (3pm–6.30pm), and an online webinar on November 19 (12.30pm–1.30pm).

Funded by the Department of Transport through the NTA, the project is a key part of the wider DART+ programme aimed at increasing rail capacity and electrification across the Greater Dublin Area. A planning application is expected in the third quarter of 2026, with construction due to begin in 2028, subject to approval and funding. The build period is anticipated to last around two years.

Hugh Creegan, Interim Chief Executive at the NTA, said: "The NTA welcomes the next phase of the DART+ programme being brought forward to consultation. Enhancing rail services to the south-east is a key element of the NTA Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy 2022-2042 and will benefit the growing communities in Greystones and the surrounding areas with enhancing connectivity and accessibility by sustainable modes."

Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, added: "It is great to see the planning phase underway for DART+ Coastal South, which is a key piece of our DART+ Infrastructure. It will provide much needed extra capacity for Greystones commuters, something that the community has long campaigned for, and part of a wider programme that will double capacity and treble electrification of rail services in the Greater Dublin area."