‘A hopeful moment’ – Navan rail line secures place in National Development Plan
The long-awaited Navan rail line has taken a “small but significant” step forward after being included in the revised National Development Plan (2026–2030), with funding allocated to advance the project through statutory planning and towards a Railway Order.
Under the updated plan, funding has been earmarked to bring the project through the formal planning system and to support the construction of several new stations along the proposed route.
The line would extend the existing commuter service from M3 Parkway to Navan, with potential new stops at Dunshaughlin, Kilmessan and, ultimately, a central station in Navan town.
Fine Gael Councillor Yemi Adenuga welcomed the development.
“This is a small but significant step in the right direction, and I feel a real sense of optimism. For far too long, the people of Meath have waited for meaningful commitment to better public transport. Including the Navan rail line in the NDP is recognition of that need and the importance of finally delivering on it,” she said.
“This rail line isn’t just about convenience. It’s about giving people, in Navan, Dunshaughlin, Kilmessan and surrounding areas, better access to jobs, education, services, and a sustainable, low-carbon alternative to commuting by car.”
“It will improve connectivity, support population growth and development, and give our towns a fair chance to thrive economically.”
The project, which aims to deliver a new rail link of approximately 40 km between the terminus at M3 Parkway (north of Dunboyne) and the town of Navan, will provide direct services to Dublin city centre.
According to the National Transport Authority (NTA), the total project cost could reach up to €2–3bn, with delivery projected between 2030 and 2035.
Cllr Adenuga added: “I know many residents will say it has taken too long, and they’re right. This project is long overdue, but we must celebrate the fact we are now seeing tangible steps forward.”
“For everyone who has campaigned for this for years, this is a hopeful moment. For Meath’s future, this railway line is not just infrastructure, it is an investment in opportunity, access, and a better quality of life.”
Meanwhile Sinn Féin TD, Johnny Guirke, said the National Development Plan lacks timelines.
“I am calling for a committed funding package and a definitive completion date for the Navan Rail Line,” he said.
“The National Development Plan moves planning forward but lacks hard timelines or guarantees and offers no reassurances.”
“We need a clear funding commitment and a concrete completion date to deliver real benefits to commuters, businesses, and to the people of Meath.”
Mr Guirke added: “The National Development Plan offers no firm delivery timeline to this project that has been delayed for years.”