Government Approves €24.3 Billion Transport Investment Plan for 2026-2030

The Irish Government has approved the largest transport infrastructure investment in the State's history, with €24.3 billion allocated for roads, public transport, active travel and other projects over the next five years.

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien secured Cabinet approval today for the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport under the National Development Plan Review. The funding package includes €22.3 billion from the main transport budget, with an additional €2 billion from the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund specifically for MetroLink.

Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien:

"This €24.3 billion investment marks a transformative moment for Ireland's transport system. It is not just about building infrastructure, it is about shaping the kind of transport system we want, delivering sustainable and accessible options to connect us all."

The investment will be spread across multiple transport modes. Public transport receives approximately €10.1 billion to protect and renew the heavy rail network, replace the existing DART train fleet, deliver Phase 1 of Cork Area Commuter Rail and start Phase 2, and commence construction on the DART+ programme and Western Rail Corridor. BusConnects will see continued purchase of new electric buses and construction of Core Bus Corridors in Dublin, with works also starting in Cork and Galway.

Road networks and road safety will receive approximately €9.7 billion to protect and renew the existing road network, deliver new national road projects, mitigate seasonal and climate impacts, roll out EV charging infrastructure, and deliver new strategic regional roads and bypasses.

Minister of State Seán Canney:

"This investment enables us to maintain and upgrade our road network to the highest standards, while introducing measures that protect all road users. It will also enable further development of our rail network in line with the All-Island Strategic Rail Review."

Active travel infrastructure receives €1.8 billion for the delivery of 1,000km of new and upgraded walking and cycling infrastructure by 2030. Major projects in 2026 include the Sustainable Transport Bridge in Waterford, the Glanmire Urban Greenway in Cork City, and the Ballybane and Castlepark Cycle Network in Galway.

The plan details major national roads projects with an estimated cost over €200 million which are expected to start construction or procurement by 2030. Smaller projects under the €200 million threshold, such as the Mallow Relief Road or Ardee Bypass, are also expected to enter construction by 2030.

Regional airports will receive €44.6 million under a new Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030, focusing on safety, security and sustainability. Maritime transport and safety receives €145 million for the Irish Coast Guard building programme and the proposed replacement of the Commissioners of Irish Lights' vessel ILV Granuaile.

Minister of State Jerry Buttimer:

"Reliable and accessible transport is essential for rural communities to thrive. This investment will strengthen local connectivity by enhancing and supporting rural transport infrastructure, improving the services on offer in regional hubs, and supporting active travel options."

The Department will also invest €231 million in advanced traffic management systems, Connected and Autonomous Vehicle readiness, and a Digital Hub consolidating digital and ICT functions.

The NDP Review represents the largest and most significant capital injection in the economy in the history of the State, supporting comprehensive upgrading of water, energy and transport infrastructure.