Brand new airport service.
13 new routes will be introduced enhancing connectivity in Dublin and north Wicklow
The National Transport Authority (NTA), in partnership with Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland, has today launched the next phase of BusConnects Network Redesign in Dublin.
Phase 6a will commence operations on Sunday 26th January Phase 6a will commence operations on Sunday 26th January and will see the introduction of 13 new routes, including two 24-hour services the E1 and E2.
Routes to be introduced in Phase 6a will serve communities between Dublin Airport, north Dublin, the city centre, south Dublin, Dun Laoghaire and north Wicklow, providing greater service levels, new transport options and enhanced connectivity across this part of the TFI network.
Overall bus service levels in these areas are to increase by over 7% as a result of these changes.
The combined E-spine routes, E1 and E2, will run around the clock, from north of Ballymun through the city centre, to Dún Laoghaire and Bray/ Ballywaltrim to the south.
The E-spine will improve access to key services including third-level colleges, such as UCD, TCU, DCU and TUD, and hospitals like the Mater, the Rotunda, Temple Street and Loughlinstown.
E1 and E2 will bring to 12 the number of 24/7 bus services in the TFI bus network in Dublin. NTA’s introduction of 24-hour services is in line with the recommendations of the Government’s Night-Time Economy Taskforce to improve the public realm and provide effective public transport solutions through the night. This will make it for people to choose public transport to get work or to socialise and will provide much-needed support for the night-time economy.
A new route 19 which will run from Dublin Airport, through Ballymun, on to Wadelai, through Drumcondra and on to the centre of Dublin is also part of this phase of BusConnects.
The 19 will run every 20 minutes for most of the day and every 10 minutes between Wadelai and the city centre at peak times. From January 26th the 19 will initially terminate in Parnell Square, with three week-day morning peak services running to Merrion Square and three week-day evening peak services running from Merrion Square. Additional services to and from Merrion Square will be introduced from February 4th. From April, services will run day-long to and from Merrion Square.
The 19 will offer connectivity to Dublin Airport from areas including Glasnevin and Ballymun. While Dublin Airport is in very close proximity, this will be the first time there has been a direct connection like this. The 19 will prove very useful for people who live in Dublin 9 and 11, and who work in the airport, with services running from early morning to late at night.
Phase 6a also includes the introduction of eight new local routes. In the new network, these routes are designed to provide links to local centres and to onward transport connections. From January 26th the L1, L2, L3, L12, L14, L15, L26 and L27 will become operational, providing new services and new connectivity, particularly in the south Dublin and north Wicklow areas.
Hugh Creegan, Interim CEO of the National Transport Authority said: “Today’s launch reflects our commitment to creating a more connected, accessible and reliable public transport system, ensuring our passengers have more choices and flexibility to their daily travel.
“Expanding our round- the- clock services and enhancing our connectivity is essential to support Ireland’s growing population with sustainable, efficient transport options.”
Billy Hann, CEO of Dublin Bus said: “We are excited to welcome the new year with the launch of services that will make a real difference for Dublin Bus customers across the city.
“The E1 and E2 routes, both operating 24 hours a day, will help support Dublin’s vibrant night-time economy.
“Along with the new Route 19, these services will further strengthen the city’s public transport network. Dublin is a city on the move, and this next phase of BusConnects allows us to continue playing a key role in connecting both commuters and visitors, day and night.”
Dervla McKay, Managing Director of Go-Ahead Ireland, said: “Go-Ahead Ireland is proud to take part in the launch of Phase 6A of BusConnects today alongside our transport partners.
“With every new service added to Dublin’s public transport network, passengers are continually encouraged to take up sustainable modes of transport in their daily lives.
“Go-Ahead Ireland is dedicated to its role in ensuring the reliability and accessibility of the public transport network in the greater Dublin area, and we look forward to the improved services that our passengers will receive as a result of Phase 6A.”
For more information, please visit: Phase 6a: E-Spine – Launching January 26th 2025 – Transport for Ireland
