Wicklow DART+ Battery Charging Works Expected to Begin Next Year Subject to Approvals

Construction of battery-electric rail charging infrastructure at Wicklow railway station is expected to begin next year, subject to relevant approvals, the Dáil heard.

Speaking during a debate on the rail network, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer confirmed that Iarnród Éireann issued tender documents in August to engage a design-and-build contractor for the Wicklow station charging facilities. The works form part of plans to extend battery-electric train services south to Wicklow town from 2029 under the DART+ programme.

Battery-electric trainsets are currently undergoing safety testing and certification, with the first operational services scheduled to launch by extending DART services to Drogheda from the second quarter of next year. These trains are designed to operate beyond overhead electrified lines in advance of full network electrification.

Addressing wider DART+ delivery milestones, the Minister noted that enabling works for DART+ West recently commenced following a sod-turning ceremony. In addition, Iarnród Éireann initiated compulsory purchase order processes for DART+ South West in February and for DART+ West in September. Tender invitations for major contract frameworks covering signalling, electrical, and civil engineering works are scheduled for release in the coming months.

Deputy Edward Timmins pressed for strict adherence to infrastructure delivery timelines, highlighting a current six-hour daytime gap in train services at Wicklow town, limited four-carriage trains, and physical constraints preventing the widening of the parallel N11 road corridor.