Appeal rules out fast-track probe for Metro North
A public hearing into Metro North will last at least two months when it begins.
An Bord Pleanala expects to hear submissions from 179 groups and individuals into proposals to build an 18km light-rail system from St Stephen's Green to Belinstown, north of Swords. The project is expected to cost between €3.5-€4bn, if it goes ahead.
The planning appeals board is to hire experts to assess vibration, noise, traffic and ground settlement arising from building works which will see large parts of the capital dug up to allow 8kms of underground tunnels to be dug.
Last Friday the four preferred bidders submitted almost 600 boxes of tender documents seeking to build the line on behalf of the Railway Procurement Agency.
While the Government has repeatedly said the project will go ahead, not until the winning bidder is announced and a final costing secured will the cabinet make a decision to grant approval or defer the project.
Saving
The Society of Chartered Surveyors says that construction prices have fallen 11pc this year, which could represent a substantial saving to the Government if it decides to proceed.
Parties taking part include the Railway Procurement Agency, Mater Hospital, local residents, businesses on O'Connell Street, as well as Iarnrod Eireann, Dublin Bus, the Dublin Transportation Office and business groups.
The Metro North East Route Alliance, which is seeking to have an alternative line built, are also represented along with Dublin City and Fingal County Councils and a number of public representatives including former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Cyprian Brady TD (FF), Senator Paschal Donohue (FG) and Roisin Shortall TD (Labour).
The project is expected to be completed by 2013, assuming it goes ahead. It will serve Dublin Airport, Ballymun, hospitals and major employment centres and will run for 18kms with 8km running underground from St Stephen's Green to Fosterstown, near Swords. It will have 17 stops, nine underground, and three park and ride carparks. A dozen properties will be demolished to facilitate construction.
hnews@herald.ie
- Jane Last
