Dublin’s MetroLink Set to Transform City Transit with Extensive Connectivity

Contrary to claims that Dublin’s MetroLink will be isolated from the city’s existing transport network, the new rail system will offer comprehensive integration with bus routes, Luas tram lines, and Dart train services across the capital.

The planned metro line will connect directly to numerous bus routes at nearly every station along its route, including arterial, orbital, and regional services. This connectivity extends to Dublin Airport, where passengers will have access to intercity coach routes serving destinations across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

For Luas connections, MetroLink will directly interface with the Green Line at two key locations: Charlemont and O’Connell Street. At St. Stephen’s Green and Tara stations, passengers will find Green Line stops within a short walking distance. The Luas Red Line will also be accessible via brief walks from O’Connell Street and Tara stations.

The integration with Dart rail services represents one of the most significant aspects of the project. Direct connections will be available at Tara Street station and at the planned Glasnevin interchange station. The latter will serve as a crucial hub linking MetroLink to expanded Dart services from Maynooth, M3 Parkway (with future extension to Navan), Hazelhatch, and Celbridge.

Transport experts note that the complementary nature of MetroLink and Dart+ has been underappreciated by the public. While Tara Street will serve as an important connection point, the Glasnevin station—located just north of Phibsborough along the Royal Canal—will play an even more vital role in channeling passengers from Dart+ routes into Dublin’s core.

“The integration between these systems addresses a key challenge in Dublin’s transport infrastructure,” said a transport analyst familiar with the project. “Due to capacity constraints at Connolly Station, many Dart services on different lines will terminate at a new Docklands station. Glasnevin Station will offer passengers a seamless indoor transfer to MetroLink for reaching O’Connell Street or St. Stephen’s Green areas.”

The introduction of the Transport for Ireland 90 Minute Fare has already accustomed Dubliners to switching between transit modes. However, connections between high-frequency rail services will be even more convenient and reliable than bus transfers.

At the southern terminus in Charlemont, MetroLink will link directly to the Luas Green Line, with various bus services available within walking distance. The E Spine bus route will be approximately 400 meters away on Leeson Street Upper, while the A Spine will be about 500 meters away on Rathmines Road.

St. Stephen’s Green station will provide access to the Luas Green Line within 400 meters without crossing any roads. The A, E, and F Spine bus routes will run alongside the station, offering multiple connection options.

The integration continues northward, with each station offering specific connectivity benefits. At Glasnevin, a key interchange will unite MetroLink and planned Dart services on the Maynooth and Kildare lines. This station also allows for potential connections with Sligo intercity trains, while the Royal Canal Greenway will run adjacent to it.

Further north, stations at Ballymun, Northwood, and Dublin Airport will connect to various bus spines and orbital routes. The airport station will be particularly important, linking to the A2 and N8 orbital routes, local buses, and intercity coaches.

The final stop at Estuary will feature a Park and Ride facility for commuters from North County Dublin and beyond, with potential for bus routes serving Balbriggan, Skerries, Rush, and Lusk to directly connect to the station.

Transport planners emphasize that this level of integration is essential for maximizing the efficiency of Dublin’s public transport network. When complete, MetroLink will not function as an isolated system but as a central component in a comprehensive, interconnected transit network that spans the greater Dublin area.