Labour Councillor Pio Smith says that, with all the new housing development on the North side of Drogheda, it is only a matter of time before a new train station is built there. He also believes that Louth County Council would not be against the idea.
Cllr Smith said “a significant number of people would like a new train station on the North side of town and some believe that the council are against it or even blocked it but that’s not the case” he said.
Cllr. Smith adds that he has contacted the National Transport Authority (NTA) about the possibility of a new station in Drogheda and they have said that they have no proposals for additional rail station for the town at this time but their priority is the DART +Project.
The NTA also state that the single line crossing the Boyne Viaduct is a major constraint in providing additional rail services north of the Boyne. The electrification of the rail line over the Boyne would also be a major challenge with regards to the provision of DART Services beyond McBride Rail Station.
“Many people think that a train station on the north side would significantly reduce peak time traffic congestion and I agree with them” Clllr Smith said. “Unfortunately the NTA see it differently however Louth County Council is not against the idea.
“Policy Objective MOV 7 in the(Council’s) Development Plan supports the improvement of rail services in various parts of the County including a new train station in North Drogheda.
“Currently the Joint Local Area Plan for Drogheda is being discussed and the provision of a rail station on the north side is a priority for me.
“I believe that given the significant population growth on the north side of town then it’s only a matter of time before a new train station will be built”.
