Dublin Port’s MP2 Project Secures Planning Permission for Ireland’s Largest Marine Construction
Dublin Port Company is delivering Ireland’s largest marine construction initiative, transforming port infrastructure to handle next-generation vessels and growing freight traffic.
The MP2 Project represents the second major capital development within Dublin Port’s Masterplan 2040 framework. This 15-year phased development involves construction of a new quay wall at Berth 52 East and a roll-on/roll-off facility at Berth 53, designed to accommodate expanding ferry and freight operations. The planning permission structure, granted through An Bord Pleanála decision, permits phased works across existing port lands in the northeastern estate section, ensuring operational continuity while modernising facilities.
Environmental stewardship anchors the project’s delivery. Construction activities comply with strict licensing conditions and seasonal restrictions protecting the River Liffey ecosystem. Piling operations cease during peak salmon smolt migration from March to May, while dredging campaigns run from October through March. Dredging contractor Boskalis has executed multiple capital dredging campaigns, with the most recent phase spanning December 2024 to March 2025.
Financial backing strengthens project momentum. Dublin Port secured €73.8 million in EU Connecting Europe Facility for Transport programme funding during 2024, demonstrating international recognition of the infrastructure’s strategic importance. The investment supports handling over €165 billion in annual trade, cementing Dublin Port’s position as Ireland’s largest and busiest port.
The project encompasses both land-based and marine-based construction works, including two new river berths with associated linkspans that will enable safer berthing of increasingly larger vessels. This technological advancement reflects maritime industry evolution, where vessel dimensions continue expanding beyond conventional berth capabilities. The infrastructure upgrade positions Dublin Port to compete within international shipping networks while maintaining environmental compliance standards.
An Bord Pleanála’s approval framework includes specific derogations addressing environmental and operational considerations. The foreshore consent application, managed separately from the main planning permission process, acknowledges the project’s marine boundary dimensions and requires adherence to EPA dumping permits for dredged material disposal.
Masterplan 2040 comprises three coordinated initiatives. The Alexandra Basin Redevelopment neared completion, MP2 construction progresses actively, and the Third and Final Masterplan project advances through An Bord Pleanála’s planning permission pipeline. This staggered approach distributes infrastructure investment while managing environmental impact and operational disruption strategically.
Community investment accompanies port development. Dublin Port Company supported €140,000 in IT refurbishment at St. Joseph’s National School, East Wall, reflecting corporate responsibility commitments within project communities.
Consultancy firm Malachy Walsh & Partners and contractor Wills Bros drive project execution, combining engineering expertise with construction delivery experience necessary for marine-based infrastructure of this complexity and scale.
The MP2 Project demonstrates how strategic planning permission frameworks accommodate major infrastructure modernisation while maintaining environmental protection, community engagement, and financial sustainability. Dublin Port’s integrated approach—securing EU funding, obtaining An Bord Pleanála decision approval, implementing seasonal environmental restrictions, and maintaining community partnerships—establishes a replicable model for large-scale port development balancing commercial necessity with environmental stewardship.
Originally reported by Engineers Ireland on Fri, 14 Nov 2025 22:31:07 +0000. Full story
