Dart+ Coastal north Extension Dispute Resolved in High Court
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A legal challenge brought by Alcove Ireland Three Ltd, a company linked to property developer Sean Reilly, against the planned extension of the Dart line from Malahide to Drogheda has been resolved, the High Court heard on Thursday, December 5, 2024. The case, concerning the Dart+ Coastal North project, was adjourned to Monday to allow for finalization of the agreement.
Background of the Dispute
Alcove Ireland Three Ltd, part of the McGarrell Reilly property advancement group, initiated proceedings in October 2023 seeking to quash An Coimisiún Pleanála’s (The Planning Commission) decision to grant permission for the Dart+ Coastal North project, spearheaded by Coras Iompar Éireann (CIÉ), Ireland’s national transport company. https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2023/1026/1090341-dart-extension-legal-challenge/
The company owns approximately 14 hectares of land near Rush and Lusk station in north County Dublin. the Dart+ Coastal North plan requires the acquisition of portions of this land, both permanently and temporarily, for the extension of the railway line. https://www.independent.ie/news/business/property/developer-sean-reilly-takes-high-court-action-over-dart-extension-40944998.html
Claims Made by Alcove Ireland Three Ltd
In its judicial review, Alcove ireland Three argued that the Planning Commission’s decision to approve the Dart+ Coastal North project was invalid, citing interference with the company’s property rights as a key concern.
Mediation and Resolution
In November 2023, lawyers for Alcove ireland Three requested an adjournment to explore mediation as a means of resolving the dispute. On Thursday, december 5, 2024, barrister damien Keaney, representing Alcove Ireland Three, informed Ms. Justice Emily Farrell that the matter had been resolved, though not yet finalized. He requested a further adjournment to next week to complete the necessary steps. https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2024/1205/dart-extension-dispute-resolved-in-high-court/
Ms. Justice Farrell agreed to adjourn the case until Monday, December 9, 2024.
Dart+ Coastal North Project Overview
The Dart+ Coastal North project aims to significantly improve rail infrastructure along the Dublin coastline, extending the Dart line northwards from Malahide to Drogheda. this expansion is intended to increase capacity, reduce journey times, and enhance connectivity for commuters and residents in the region. https://www.dartplus.ie/coastal-north/ The project is a key component of the Irish government’s investment in public transport infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The resolution of this legal challenge removes a potential obstacle to the Dart+ Coastal North project. Finalization of the agreement early next week will allow CIÉ to proceed with land acquisition and continue the development of this critically important infrastructure project, bringing improved rail services closer to realization for communities along the north Dublin coastline.
date:2024-12-06 10:30:00
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