NTA Introduces Orbital Route for Northside Commuters
The National Transport Authority (NTA) in collaboration with Go-Ahead Ireland has announced the launch of a new northside orbital route, the N2, as part of the ongoing BusConnects Network Redesign for Dublin. This innovative service is set to revolutionize the way passengers travel across Dublin’s Northside, providing a convenient alternative that bypasses the city center congestion.
The N2 route is scheduled to commence operations on Sunday, September 29th, offering commuters a more efficient way to traverse the Northside without the hassle of navigating through the city center. The service will run from Heuston Station in the west to Clontarf Road Station in the east, serving key locations along its path.
Enhanced Connectivity and Accessibility
The N2 route will provide seamless connectivity to various transportation hubs, including Heuston Station, which offers access to commuter and inter-city rail services, Luas tram lines, city buses, and commuter bus services. At Broombridge, passengers can easily transfer to rail, Luas, and bus services, while Clontarf Road Station provides access to DART services, enhancing the overall accessibility of the Northside.
Moreover, the N2 route will improve access to educational institutions such as DCU Glasnevin, DCU St. Patrick’s Campus, TUD Grangegorman, and the Marino Institute of Education. With direct connections to over 20 primary and secondary schools along the route, the N2 will cater to the needs of students and staff, ensuring a smooth and efficient commute.
Cultural and Recreational Highlights
In addition to enhancing connectivity, the N2 route will also serve as a gateway to Dublin’s cultural and recreational landmarks. Passengers will have easy access to iconic sites such as the Phoenix Park, National Museum of Ireland – Collins Barracks, Glasnevin Cemetery, and Casino Marino, providing opportunities for leisure and exploration along the way.
Furthermore, the N2 route will offer direct connectivity to places of employment in areas like Ballyboggan Road, fostering economic growth and facilitating commuting for workers in the Northside. Additionally, the route connects with route N4 at Clontarf Road Station, providing seamless access to job opportunities in the North Docklands area, further enhancing the economic benefits of the N2 service.
Supporting Sustainable Mobility
Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority, emphasized the importance of the N2 route in enhancing Dublin’s public transport system and promoting sustainable mobility. By expanding the BusConnects network with the introduction of the N2, more passengers will have access to efficient and eco-friendly transportation options, reducing reliance on private cars and contributing to the city’s sustainability goals.
Dervla McKay, Managing Director of Go-Ahead Ireland, expressed pride in operating the new N2 orbital service and highlighted the role of public transport in achieving sustainable mobility objectives. By offering passengers an alternative to private cars and expanding the public transport network, Go-Ahead Ireland aims to facilitate the movement of people to various destinations, supporting the growth and development of Dublin and its surrounding areas.
In line with the BusConnects Network Redesign initiative, the N2 route marks the tenth orbital route introduced to improve public transport connectivity in Dublin. With plans to expand the network further, the NTA is set to introduce the inner orbital Route O next year, followed by the N8 route linking Blanchardstown to Dublin Airport in a later phase, enhancing overall accessibility and efficiency of the public transport system.
For more information on the N2 route, including a detailed timetable and route map, please visit the official Transport for Ireland website at https://www.transportforireland.ie/getting-around/by-bus/n2-orbital-route/.
