Green light for 200 million Euro tunnel for Dublin Airport

Sep 06 2024 Travel trends

In a significant development for Dublin Airport, An Bord Pleanála has given the green light for the construction of a new €200 million tunnel. This project, slated to enhance both access and safety on the airport's premises, marks a crucial step forward in the airport's infrastructure development.

The decision comes after extensive deliberation and review by the appeals board, which ultimately concluded that the proposed tunnel, set to run beneath the airport's 'Crosswind' runway, would not pose any unacceptable impacts on the surrounding area's amenities or on traffic safety. This validation from the appeals board reinforces the earlier planning permission granted by Fingal Co Council in February of the preceding year.

Improving access and safety on the airfield

The tunnel, spanning 700 meters and with an overall alignment of 1.1 kilometers, is poised to become a vital artery in the airport's infrastructure network. According to a statement by the Dublin Airport Authority (daa), the tunnel is crucial for improving access and safety on the airfield, facilitating the segregation of aircraft and vehicles, and enabling movement to the West Apron—an area that has faced restrictions since the opening of the North Runway in August 2022.

Highlighting the importance of the underpass, a daa spokesperson emphasized its critical role in maintaining safety standards and meeting future operational requirements. Additionally, the project is expected to generate over 160 jobs during its construction phase, providing a boost to the local economy.

Ryanair concerns

However, despite the favorable decision from An Bord Pleanála, the project may encounter further obstacles as objectors now have an eight-week window to bring a Judicial Review of the permission grant. Such challenges are not uncommon for large-scale infrastructure projects, and stakeholders will need to navigate them diligently.

In the midst of these developments, concerns have been raised, notably by Ryanair and local residents' groups, regarding the necessity and cost-effectiveness of the project. Ryanair, in particular, has questioned the rationale behind investing over €200 million in the tunnel, arguing that vehicular access between the eastern and western aprons of the airport could be achieved at surface level. They contend that the need for the underpass, primarily arising from crosswind conditions affecting a small percentage of annual aircraft movements, does not justify such a substantial expenditure.

Significant milestone for Dublin Airport

Despite these objections, the broader consensus underscores the critical importance of the tunnel as a foundational piece of infrastructure for Dublin Airport's continued growth and operational efficiency. Proponents argue that the long-term benefits in terms of safety enhancements, operational flexibility, and facilitating various airport functions far outweigh the initial investment.

Looking ahead, as construction on the project is estimated to take approximately three years, stakeholders will need to navigate potential challenges and ensure smooth progress towards the realization of this vital infrastructure. Ultimately, the approval of the €200 million tunnel heralds a significant milestone for Dublin Airport, signaling its commitment to enhancing both its capabilities and safety standards to meet the evolving needs of travelers and aviation stakeholders alike.