The Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) has formally written to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, the Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD, the Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien TD, and the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD, expressing concerns regarding the National Development Plan (NDP) Review 2025 Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport.
The action follows a decision of the Assembly at its December meeting, where Members highlighted the importance of ensuring the Transport Sectoral Plan fully aligns with both the National Planning Framework (NPF) and Project Ireland 2040 commitments.
Concerns Raised by EMRA
While acknowledging the unprecedented level of capital investment provided for under the NDP, the Assembly notes several areas where the Transport Sectoral Plan requires revision to support sustainable growth across the Eastern and Midland Region.
1. Delays to Rail Projects
EMRA outlined that postponements to key light and heavy rail projects including MetroLink, Luas Expansion, DART+, and the Navan Rail Line risk undermining compact growth, sustainable mobility, and national climate targets. These projects are essential to delivering Transport‑Oriented Development at scale.
2. Insufficient Active Travel Funding
The Assembly emphasises the need for increased and secure investment in walking and cycling infrastructure to improve safety, encourage modal shift, and reduce congestion. Dedicated funding is required to meet the Climate Action Plan target of a 50% increase in daily active travel journeys by 2030.
3. Long‑standing Safety Issues on the N81 Corridor
The letter highlights the infrastructural deficits and safety risks on the N81 in West Wicklow, noting that it is the only national primary route serving the capital that has seen no significant investment in more than 80 years. Improved investment is important to addressing regional equity and safety.
Statement from EMRA
Cllr David Healy, Cathaoirleach of EMRA, said:
“Transport infrastructure is the backbone of sustainable development. Without timely investment in rail, active travel, and regional safety improvements, we risk failing our housing, climate, and spatial equity commitments.”
Next Steps
EMRA has requested that the Government consider reviewing and amending the Transport Sectoral Investment Plan to ensure its full alignment with:
- the National Planning Framework, and
- the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) 2019–2031.
A copy of EMRA’s letter is available here: Letter to Minister James Browne
