An artist's impression of the Charlemont Metro station

Judicial review into MetroLink rail line is withdrawn

23 Dec 2025, 18:01 by David Murphy, https://www.facebook.com/rtenews/ · RTE.ie

A proposed judicial review into Dublin's planned MetroLink has been withdrawn following mediation with residents.

An application for a review had been submitted by residents of Dartmouth Square off Leeson Street which is located close to the planned final stop of the line.

There had been concerns that a protracted legal action could have delayed the 18.8km line for up to three years.

It is planned to run from Charlemont near the capital's city centre to Swords Estuary via Dublin Airport.

Recent timelines suggest that if there were no objections the project could be completed in the mid 2030s.

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien confirmed that the legal action had been withdrawn.

He said a "mediation process has resulted in an early Christmas present for us all.

"It means we can enter the New Year with renewed optimism as regards delivery of this transformative project."

Minister O'Brien said the Government had committed dedicated funding toward the project and was committed to establishing a delivery body to oversee the project's construction.

He said next year would see the first steps taken in relation to procurement.

"Today’s announcement means we now have a clean planning decision which will give everyone the certainty needed about next steps," he added.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland said: "This resolution avoids the need for a full High Court hearing and provides important certainty for the delivery of MetroLink, a nationally significant public transport project."

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Jack Chambers said MetroLink would support the delivery of thousands of new homes.

He added that the withdrawal of the judicial review was good news for "families, young people and everyone seeking to secure a home".