KeolisAmey to Grab the Reins of Dublin’s Luas Tram System
KeolisAmey has been officially confirmed as the new operator for the Luas, Dublin’s light rail system, following a competitive tender process. The contract, valued at approximately €1.3 billion, marks a significant shift for the Luas after 22 years under the operation of Transdev. Services are slated to commence under the new contract on September 1, 2026.
Transition and Contract Details
The announcement, made jointly by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA), follows a cooling-off period after KeolisAmey was selected as the preferred bidder. The contract is for an initial term of seven years, with the option to extend for an additional six years. RTE reports the deal was signed on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
KeolisAmey is a joint venture combining the expertise of Keolis, a French multinational transport company, and Amey, a British infrastructure maintenance contractor. The venture is split 65% in favor of Keolis. The Irish Times notes the pair currently operate the Docklands Light Railway in London and Manchester’s Metrolink light rail network.
Impact on Services and Future Development
The new contract includes provisions for an enhanced timetable with additional services during peak hours, scheduled to be introduced in 2027. DublinLive highlights that the planned extension of the Luas to Finglas and the rollout of new trams to increase capacity are also key components of the future development plans.
Anne Shaw, CEO of the National Transport Authority, emphasized the importance of the contract in developing the Luas as a high-capacity, sustainable, and reliable public transport service for Dublin. The NTA anticipates the improvements will make public transport a more attractive option for commuters.
Transition of Staff and Previous Operator
Transdev, the current operator, will facilitate the transition to KeolisAmey over the coming months, as their existing contract awarded in 2019 comes to an end. TII expects the vast majority of Luas staff will transfer to KeolisAmey in accordance with Transfer of Undertakings Regulations. Lorcan O’Connor, CEO at Transport Infrastructure Ireland, thanked Transdev for their over 20 years of service operating the Luas.
KeolisAmey’s Experience
KeolisAmey brings significant experience to the Luas operation, having successfully run the Docklands Light Railway in London since 2014 and recently securing a new eight-year contract for that service. They also manage Manchester’s Metrolink light rail network. Keolis, operating across 13 countries, has an annual turnover of €7.7 billion and employs over 70,000 people, while Amey generates €2.2 billion in revenue specializing in transport infrastructure. LinkedIn confirms KeolisAmey’s excitement to become custodians of the Luas.