Iarnród Éireann has published the Emerging Preferred Route for the new Navan Railway, set to provide direct DART services between Dublin City Centre and Navan, the largest town in Ireland not currently on the passenger rail network. The new 34-kilometre electrified route will see the existing rail line extended from M3 Parkway, with new stations proposed at Dunshaughlin, Kilmessan, Navan Central and terminating at Navan North, allowing trains up to every 15 minutes at peak between Navan and Dublin’s Connolly Station.

The journey time of approximately 60 minutes from Navan to Dublin will ensure frequent, reliable and sustainable public transport, with capacity for up to 4,400 commuters each way per hour. The four new stations will include three park and ride locations at Kilmessan, Dunshaughlin and Navan North. The project is funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said  “Today marks a key milestone in our plans to extend the DART system to Navan, with the announcement of the preferred route for this 34km railway extension from M3 Parkway to Navan North, calling at the growing towns of Dunshaughlin and Kilmessan on the way, and introducing a new Navan Central station.  As the largest town in Ireland without a railway service, this new line will meet the substantial demand from commuters in Navan and, thanks to new park and ride locations, those from further afield.  With a journey time of only an hour, this new line will offer a frequent, reliable and sustainable alternative to the car. This public consultation is an opportunity for everyone to have their say on how this project benefits or impacts them.”

Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said  “This is a hugely important milestone for County Meath and a project that will transform how our communities connect, live and work. The Navan Railway will deliver real benefits on the ground—improving connectivity, supporting employment, and unlocking significant economic growth across the county. We look forward to working with our national partners to progress this vital infrastructure for the people of Meath.” Pictured above: Meath County Council CEO Kieran Kehoe pictured with An Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Councillor Wayne Harding 

 

Public Consultation Process

The Public Consultation, which commences today for the Navan Railway, presents the ‘Emerging Preferred Option’ for the project design and will remain open until  5pm on Friday 3rd July 2026. It is the first of two non-statutory public consultations seeking the public’s feedback on the proposed plans.  The knowledge and insight of communities, residents, and businesses adjacent to the route, as well as other stakeholders, will inform the design and help Iarnród Éireann to shape the project plans, ensuring that it will maximise benefits for customers and the communities it will serve.

All are encouraged to review the full details of the plans, including details on how to contact the team and give feedback, at: www.irishrail.ie/navan-line   As well as online feedback, a series of consultation events will be held for those who would like to learn more about the project, details of which can be found below.

Upon completion of this consultation, all submissions will be carefully considered by the Project design team, and these will be used to inform the subsequent design development and the formation of the Preferred Option. A second phase of public consultation will take place when a Preferred Option for the project has been identified.

The project team will be available to discuss the project at the following public information events:

  • Navan Solstice Arts Centre (C15 KWP1) Wednesday 27 May, 2pm – 8pm
  • Dunshaughlin Pastoral Centre (A85 W886) Thursday 4 June, 2pm – 8pm
  • Navan Education Centre (C15 RK03) Tuesday 9 June, 3pm – 8pm
  • Station House Hotel, Kilmessan (C15 N40D) Tuesday 16 June, 2pm – 8pm
  • Online Public Webinar, Thursday 18 June, 7:30pm – 8:30pm. Please visit www.irishrail.ie/navan-line or email navan@irishrail.ie to register