Transport Infrastructure Ireland has acquired a two-acre portion of the Hammerson site on Dublin's O'Connell Street for nearly €81 million, securing a key foothold for the planned MetroLink rail project as the government prepares to sign off on updated costings.
MetroLink has submitted a revised business case to transport authorities, replacing a 2021 estimate that placed the project between €7.16 billion and €12.25 billion. Interim programme director Michael Flynn said the new figure cannot be disclosed until ministers review the proposal. Minister Jack Chambers indicated a final government decision will come in early autumn, adding he is hopeful construction will begin within two years.
The 18.8-kilometre route with 16 mostly underground stations is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s, with Chambers estimating a build time of roughly 10 years. The acquired O'Connell Street site stretches approximately 200 metres along the thoroughfare.