An internal Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) presentation emphasised light rail’s key role in Dublin’s future public transport and called for faster development of new lines.

However, the current network faces challenges. The Red Line, linking Docklands to Tallaght and Saggart, is operating at or beyond capacity. The presentation noted there are not enough trams, and expanding services is difficult, though there is growing interest in addressing these issues due to the network’s success.

TII said longer 55-metre trams aren’t a good solution because they are slower and share busy roads with cars, creating safety concerns. Instead, more frequent trams are needed.

The Green Line, running from Broombridge to Sandyfod and Bride’s Glen, has sufficient capacity short-term, with some service increases possible using existing trams.

Depot capacity is limited: Sandyfod’s main facility can’t be expanded due to land constraints, while Boombridge has space but poses operational challenges. Expansion near Red Cow is also under consideration.

Among proposed new routes is a circular line from Finglas through DCU, Drumcondra, Griffith Avenue, Marino, and Fairview.

Short-term plans include extending the Luas to Poolbeg and studying improvements to the Red and Green lines. Other projects suggested are a possible UCD connection and an extension to Bray, expected to start between 2028 and 2030.

TII aims to begin work on a new Luas line every one to two years from 2029, aiming for an advanced network by 2050.

A TII spokesperson described Luas as a vital infrastructure and said the 2050 plan guides future investments to support Ireland’s growth.