NTA Awards Contract for Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre Scheme
National Transport Authority (NTA) has today announced the awarding of a contract for the construction of the Ballymun / Finglas to City Centre Scheme under the BusConnects Dublin infrastructure programme. The project will be delivered by Northern Ireland based company, GRAHAM. Construction on this Scheme will commence in 2026.
Transforming Travel Along the Corridor
The Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme will deliver significant infrastructure improvements that will transform how people travel along this corridor. It will introduce around 22 kilometres of dedicated bus priority in both directions, providing quicker and more reliable bus services.
In addition, over 20 kilometres of cycling infrastructure will be developed, making journeys safer for cyclists and encouraging active travel. Upgraded footpaths and improved junctions will support safer and more efficient movement for all road users.
Boosting Sustainable Transport and Connectivity
These enhancements are expected to increase bus usage on the route by 22% and walking and cycling by 29%, reducing car dependency and supporting sustainable travel. The corridor will also facilitate interchange opportunities with other public transport modes, improving access to Broombridge and Chancery Stations for Luas and Irish Rail services, and aligning with the future MetroLink network to ensure seamless integration across Dublin’s sustainable transport network.
GRAHAM proven track record in Ireland and UK
GRAHAM have a proven track record of delivering major infrastructure projects in Ireland and the UK, including the Samuel Beckett Bridge and Rosie Hackett Bridge in Dublin.
Investment and Delivery Timeline
The Ballymun / Finglas to City Centre Scheme will take approximately three years to deliver, with an estimated total scheme cost range of up to €366 million. This represents a significant investment in delivering sustainable transport for north Dublin.
NTA’s programme to improve bus services in Dublin
BusConnects Dublin is the NTA’s programme to greatly improve bus services in the capital city. including the delivery of approximately 230 kilometres of dedicated bus priority and 200 kilometres of cycling infrastructure across twelve key radial corridors. Improved sustainable transport infrastructure will enhance accessibility, improve access to housing and services, as well as support local businesses and jobs.
Milestone for BusConnects Dublin Programme
This contract marks another major milestone in the delivery phase of BusConnects Dublin. It is the second Core Bus Corridor contract to be signed, following the Liffey Valley to City Centre Corridor. All twelve Core Bus Corridors have been approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála. These corridors will be delivered incrementally over the coming years to ensure a targeted delivery programme that will deliver the best results for the greater Dublin area.
Core Bus Corridor will provide faster, more reliable public transport
Speaking on the announcement, Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Ray McAdam, said; “Today’s announcement represents an important milestone for Ballymun, Finglas and our wider city. The delivery of this Core Bus Corridor will provide faster, more reliable public transport, safer walking and cycling routes, and stronger connections, supporting more sustainable travel for all. I particularly welcome the NTA’s commitment to working closely with residents and businesses throughout the construction period, ensuring that community voices remain central as we deliver a more accessible, connected and future-focused Dublin.”
Investing in sustainable travel options in North Dublin
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said: “The signing of the contract for BusConnects Dublin Ballymun / Finglas to City Centre Scheme signals real progress in delivering the wider BusConnects programme, ultimately setting out the transport objectives set out in the National Development Plan through additional investment in public transport.
“This project will provide faster and more reliable bus services, safer cycling and walking infrastructure, and better integration with Dublin’s wider public transport network. By investing in sustainable travel options in North Dublin, we are reducing car dependency, supporting local communities, and helping to create a modern, connected city in line with our national development priorities. This is the second of 12 Schemes to move to construction, all 12 of which have planning approval from An Coimisiun Pleanála, creating a pipeline of sustainable projects to be delivered by the Government in the coming years. The NTA expect to sign a contract for the third Scheme during next year
Delivering meaningful improvements for bus passengers, cyclists and pedestrians
Newly appointed National Transport Authority CEO, Anne Shaw said; “This latest announcement is an important step in the rollout of BusConnects Dublin and on behalf of the NTA we look forward to working with GRAHAM to deliver this critical Scheme in the BusConnects Dublin programme.
“This scheme will deliver meaningful improvements for bus passengers, cyclists and pedestrians along the Ballymun/ Finglas corridor. Dedicated bus priority and enhanced walking and cycling facilities will support more reliable journey times and improve outcomes for communities across Dublin with improved infrastructure, shared spaces and reliable services.
“We look forward to delivering this project in a planned and phased manner, working closely with local communities and businesses throughout the construction period.”
Once-in-a-generation upgrade to Dublin’s sustainable transport network
Aidan Gallagher, Head of BusConnects Dublin Infrastructure of the NTA said: “The NTA is proud to deliver this bus corridor alongside GRAHAM for our second Scheme to get underway, Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre. GRAHAM has a proven track record of delivering major infrastructure projects.
The BusConnects Dublin programme will deliver a once-in-a-generation upgrade to Dublin’s sustainable transport network, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure bringing meaningful benefits for all – including expanded sustainable travel options and a healthier environment for Dublin.”
Jonathan Hall, Chief Operating Officer at GRAHAM said: “We are delighted to be delivering the Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre programme as part of the BusConnects Core Bus Corridor Scheme. This is a landmark project for the city, and we look forward to working closely with our partners to ensure its successful delivery. GRAHAM are proud to contribute to a scheme that will play such an important role in shaping a more connected and sustainable future for Dublin”.
Community engagement remains central
Community engagement will remain a central focus of the BusConnects Core Bus Corridor Schemes. The NTA is putting in place detailed communication arrangements to ensure residents, businesses, community groups and elected representatives are kept fully informed throughout the construction period. Each scheme will have a dedicated website, phone line and email address, supported by regular updates and local outreach events.
To stay informed about the delivery of the BusConnects Core Bus Corridors programme, visit: https://ballymunfinglasscheme.ie/sign-up/ to register for project updates, or Get in Touch – BusConnects Dublin – Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre.
For further information about the Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme, visit: www.ballymunfinglasscheme.ie