Connecting Ireland Project Updates

p_haugh

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122509883#Comment_122509883

Odd to see a 5 digit route number!

Mr rebel

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122067594#Comment_122067594

Would just like to update that the enhanced route for 243 was never implemented in Q2, much to the surprise of no one. I believe it’s well over 2 years now since the route was first marked for “enhancement”.
I’m sure they are still throwing out the not enough bus drivers excuse when the rest of the country seems to be fine. Hard to believe a relatively densely populated area of North Cork is struggling for drivers…it’s hardly the back of beyond!

john boye

The rest of the country isn't struggling for drivers? Are you being serious?

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122520871#Comment_122520871

Cork has the worst driver shortage in the country.

Bus Éireann are about 35 drivers short in Capwell.

https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41458924.html

Plenty of other plans have had to be deferred around the country for the same reason, such as many of the BusConnects phases in Dublin.

You’re just going to have to be patient.

LXFlyer

The Transport for Ireland announcement on the Limerick-Shannon-Ennis corridor improvements

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/nta-and-bus-eireann-announce-significantly-enhanced-routes-on-limerick-shannon-ennis-corridor/

NTA and Bus Éireann announce significantly enhanced routes on Limerick-Shannon-Ennis corridor

20th August 2024

First 24/7 bus route in the Mid-West

The National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Éireann, are pleased to announce significantly enhanced services and timetables on Route 343, Limerick to Shannon along with three other new or enhanced routes along the Limerick-Shannon-Ennis corridor, which will come into effect on Sunday, 25 August.

Key features of route 343 included in the plan

Route 343 (Limerick – Shannon – Shannon Airport) will become a 24-hour service, operating 7 days a week, 364 days a year.

A service increase on Route 343 operating every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off peak hours on weekdays.

The enhanced service will provide greater connectivity to Shannon Airport, Shannon Industrial Estates, and Colbert Station.

100% of timetabled services will use fully accessible buses with low floor access.

New services offer greater integration of transport networks with school transport routes.

Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan

The enhancements will benefit passengers in the region travelling for leisure, work and education as well as those making onward connections with bus and rail connections.

Route 343 servicing Shannon Airport, with Colbert Station, TUS and intercity services

Route 343 will now provide a 24hr service from Limerick to Shannon offering increased frequency throughout the daily timetable, operating every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off peak hours on weekdays, as well as offering a doubling of the weekend service. The new improved service will offer an hourly service between midnight and 4am. The service will provide greater connectivity for passengers travelling to Shannon Airport as well as connections with Colbert Station, TUS and intercity services.

Interchange with Route 330 Shannon Airport to Ennis

Passengers travelling onwards to Ennis and Newmarket-on-Fergus from Limerick can now interchange with the enhanced Route 330, Shannon Airport to Ennis.  This service will now operate a daily hourly service from 5am to midnight, providing passengers with links to Shannon Airport, interchange with the 343 service and rail services.

316 & 317 Introducing greater integration with school transport routes.

The Connecting Ireland enhancements also include new and improved routes; Route 316, Sixmilebridge to Shannon and Route 317, Limerick to Ennis via Sixmilebridge and Quin. These new and improved routes are a collaboration between the Department of Education and the Department of Transport, supported by the NTA and Bus Éireann, and will pilot and introduce greater integration of transport networks with school transport routes.

The NTA and Bus Éireann are committed to the provision of a fully accessible public transport system incorporating fully accessible vehicles and infrastructure, all of the timetabled new services will be served by fully accessible vehicles.

Easier to access Shannon Airport, with 24hr bus service between the Airport, Shannon Town and Limerick

        “Bus Éireann is delighted to introduce these improved services between Limerick, Shannon and Ennis, significantly increasing transport options for passengers, adding over 1 million kilometres to the network as well as creating 31 new jobs in the region,” said Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann.

“These new services are the result of a strong collaboration between the NTA, the Department of Education, Department of Transport with Bus Éireann to enhance connectivity across the country, delivering an affordable, reliable and sustainable bus service for communities throughout Ireland, helping to make life better.”

“Earlier this year we commenced a public consultation on our plans to significantly enhance bus services on the Limerick to Clare corridor.  Following that process our plans aim to make it easier to access Shannon Airport, with a new 24hr bus service operating between the Airport, Shannon Town and Limerick.  The revised network will operate at a higher frequency which will benefit communities across the region who want to use public transport to get to work, school or attend leisure activities in the area,” said Anne Graham, CEO of NTA.

Enhanced connectivity for inbound tourists exploring the Wild Atlantic Way

Welcoming the news, Niall Kearns, Airport Director at The Shannon Airport Group said: “We’re on track to reach 2 million passengers at Shannon Airport for the first time since 2009, so the additional frequency on Bus Éireann’s 343 service is great news. As more people choose Shannon, this new 24-hour service ensures convenient access to the airport, day or night. With 33 destinations across Europe, the UK, and the US, the increased bus service will also enhance connectivity for inbound tourists exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and improve transport for business travellers.”

Seán Golden, Director of Policy, Limerick Chamber of Commerce said: “The increased frequency and enhanced connectivity that these Bus Éireann services offer will be of huge benefit to Limerick and the entire region. We know all too well that expanding public transport routes will further enable economic growth but also enhance liveability of the region and be of great advantage to those travelling for leisure, work and education. Further linking Limerick with Shannon Industrial Estate and Shannon Airport through enhanced services will be a huge win for employees and businesses across the entire region.”

Updated bus service details and timetables are available.

Further Information

Route 343, Limerick to Shannon will become a 24-hour service between Limerick and Shannon Airport, operating 7 days a week, 364 days a year. The service will operate every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off peak hours on weekdays. On Saturdays the 343 will be half-hourly all-day and on Sundays it will be hourly – this represents a doubling of the service at weekends.

Route 330, Shannon Airport to Ennis will operate daily hourly services from 5am to midnight, providing passengers with links to Shannon airport and train services.

Route 316, Sixmilebridge to Shannon will provide increased connectivity from Shannon with its nearest railway station, Sixmilebridge.

Route 317 will boost the service to Kilmurry, Quin, Sixmilebridge and Cratloe and retain a low-floor, wheelchair-accessible bus service between Limerick and Ennis centres.

Passengers travelling between Newmarket-on-Fergus and Limerick should change in Shannon between routes 330 and 343.

Route 343X will be replaced by new route 330X, which will continue the link between Ennis, Newmarket-on-Fergus, TUS and Limerick at similar times. Route 330X, Limerick to Ennis operates daily at 7am from Ennis and 17.25pm from Limerick

Route 341 will be withdrawn between Limerick and Shannon Industrial Estate and the section between Cappamore and Limerick will be incorporated into route 332; and

Route 346 will be withdrawn in full

LXFlyer

A further change from Sunday 25th August is the enhancement of Sunday timetables on Bus Éireann route 101 between Dublin and Drogheda.

Southbound services will be doubled in frequency to half-hourly between 09:00 and 18:00.

Northbound services will be doubled in frequency to half-hourly between 11:30 and 20:30.

LXFlyer

Next update is enhancement of the Monaghan Town regional services, effective Monday 9th September.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-cavan-monaghan-enhances-services-in-monaghan-town/

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan enhances services in Monaghan Town

30th August 2024

Effective September 9th, enhanced services will improve connectivity and frequency across Routes MN1, MN2, and MN3.

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan is enhancing three key routes in Monaghan Town, set to take effect on the 9th of September. The upgraded services, formerly known as Routes M1, M2, and M3, will be rebranded as Routes MN1, MN2, and MN3, offering passengers improved frequency and connectivity.

Routes MN1 improved connectivity in Tully, The Glen, Old Cross Square, Coolshannagh,  Ballyalbany, St. Macartan’s and Monaghan Institute.

Route MN1 will see an increase in frequency to Tydavnet, with up to six daily return services Monday to Friday, and an additional evening service on Fridays. On Saturdays, the route will operate up to six daily return services, while Sundays will offer five daily return services. The enhanced MN1 route will offer improved connectivity for the communities of Knockatallon, Tydavnet, Scotstown and Ballinode with Monaghan Town also stopping at Woodlands, Dawson Street, North Road, Old Cross Square, Cathedral,  Latlorcan, Combilift, Monaghan Institute and Rooskey.

MN2 servicing communities in Ardaghy Ballybay and Doohamlet

Route MN2 will also feature increased frequency, providing up to five daily return services Monday to Friday from Castleblayney with an additional evening service on Friday, up to six daily return services on Saturday and five daily return services on Sunday.  The enhanced MN2 route will improve connectivity to the communities of  Ardaghy Ballybay and Doohamlet to key areas in Monaghan Town, including Tully, The Glen, Old Cross Square, Coolshannagh,  Ballyalbany, St. Macartan’s and Monaghan Institute.

MN3 enhancing connectivity to Dawson Street, North Road, Monaghan Hospital Rooskey, Tullygony and the communities of Tyholland, Glaslough, Emyvale, and Mullan

Route MN3 will now operate five daily return services from Monday to Friday, icluding anevening service on Fridays and Saturdays. Saturday services will offer up to six daily return trips, while Sundays will feature four daily return services. The enhanced MN3 route introduces new stops at the Leisure Centre, Cortolvin Road, and Killyconigan, enhancing connectivity to Dawson Street, North Road, Monaghan Hospital Rooskey, Tullygony and the communities of Tyholland, Glaslough, Emyvale, and Mullan.

All 3 routes provide connectivity to  Monaghan Bus Station to facilitate onward travel and  provide connectivity to regional bus services.

Additional Information: 

For route and timetable information call 047 51840 or visit www.locallinkcm.ie

LXFlyer

Route 934 between Loughrea and Gort gains an additional departure from today.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-galway-to-enhance-bus-services-from-gort-to-loughrea-with-route-934/

TFI Local Link Galway to enhance bus services from Gort to Loughrea with route 934

9th September 2024

From the 16th of September TFI Local Link Galway will enhance services from Gort to Loughrea.

Route 934 enhanced services in Peterswell, Castledaly and Kilchreest

Route 934 will now operate three daily return services Monday to Friday with peak-time services for commuters. The enhanced route will offer improved connectivity to the regional bus and rail services and the villages and areas of Peterswell, Castledaly and Kilchreest.

New morning service on Route 934 from Loughrea to Gort

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Galway General Manager Joe Greally said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our new morning service on Route 934 from Loughrea to Gort. This additional run will significantly enhance connectivity, allowing our passengers seamless access to regional bus and rail services for their onward journeys. We are committed to improving our services to meet the needs of our community and support their travel plans.”

Additional Information:

For route and timetable information, please call (091) 842 384 or visit www.locallinkgalway.ie

Learn more about the five-year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan

LXFlyer

Two new Saturday only routes have been launched by Local Link Kildare South Dublin, linking Tallaght LUAS with the Dublin Mountains.

https://locallinkkildaresouthdublin.ie/enhanced-tallaght-bus-services/

Route SD3 goes to Bohernabreena Reservoir and route SD4 to Tibradden Wood.

loco_scolo

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122620348#Comment_122620348

I wish they'd stop saying "will offer improved connectivity to the regional bus and rail services", when it's absolutely not true....

Not a single one of those bus arrival/departures times connects with a train, including the new 'Friday only enhanced' route.

LXFlyer

Next up will be a big expansion of services on the Fanad Peninsula in North Donegal. Route 300 will become route 973, with a large increase in frequency.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-enhances-bus-services-from-cionn-fhanada-to-letterkenny/

TFI Local Link enhances bus services from Cionn Fhánada to Letterkenny

27th September 2024

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is  enhancing bus services from Cionn Fhánada to Letterkenny from the 7th of October.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 973 (formerly Route 300) improves connectivity to Baile Láir, Portsalon, Kerrykeel, Rathmullan and Ramelton

Route 973, formerly named Route 300, will now operate up to ten daily return services between Letterkenny and Kerrykeel, from Monday to Sunday. This includes up to six return services that extend to Baile Láir and four return services that extend to Cionn Fhánada. The updated schedule offers a convenient 2-hourly service between Letterkenny and Kerrykeel, available throughout the day, seven days a week.

The enhanced route will provide improved connectivity to the villages and areas of Baile Láir, Portsalon, Kerrykeel, Rathmullan and Ramelton. The route will also provide peak-time and evening services for passengers ,as well as enhanced connectivity to regional bus services and the lighthouse in Cionn Fhánada.

Improved access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim General Manager, Fiona O’Shea said: “We are delighted to roll out this enhanced service in Donegal, under the NTA’s Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. Route 973 (formerly 300), which has been in operation for a number of years, will now have increased daily frequency along with evening services Monday to Sunday, which will be well received by the local communities along the route.  This service continues to provide local residents with access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities and onward travel from early morning to late evening.”

Further Information

For route and timetable information, visit www.locallinkdsl.ie

L1011

Some decent service extensions in Donegal announced, will leave it to LXflyer to format up the press release.

The idea of Burtonport having up to 11 services a day (between the extended service announced today and some other services) when it used to have two a day on Lough Swilly ~20 years ago is still hard to imagine. And the Locallink services actually turn up - the Swilly often didn't!

The 992 could do with revision to actually be useful for flights at CFN, it currently isn't; do hope that's on the list for future improvements.

LXFlyer

Absolutely, there are now three enhancements announced for northwest Donegal.

In addition to the enhancement of services between Letterkenny and the Fanad Peninsula from next Monday mentioned above, two further enhancements have been announced from Monday 14th October.

First is a large expansion of route 953 between Letterkenny and the eastern part of the Inishowen Peninsula as far as Greencastle and Shrove Lighthouse.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-donegal-sligo-leitrim-enhances-bus-services-between-greencastle-and-letterkenny-route-953/

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim enhances bus services between Greencastle and Letterkenny Route 953

4th October 2024

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is enhancing bus services between Greencastle and Letterkenny from Monday the 14th of October.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 953 with enhanced connectivity to ATU Donegal, Moville, Quigley’s Point, Muff and Bridgend.

Route 953 will now operate eight daily return services Monday to Friday, seven daily return services on Saturdays and six daily return services on Sundays. The enhanced route will provide peak-time and evening services for passengers, along with enhanced connectivity to ATU Donegal and regional bus services.

The route will offer enhanced connectivity to the villages and areas of Moville, Quigley’s Point, Muff and Bridgend.

Providing access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim General Manager, Fiona O’Shea said: “We are delighted to roll out this enhanced service in Donegal, under the NTA’s Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. Route 953 which has been in operation for a number of years, will now have increased daily frequency along with evening services Monday to Sunday, which will be well received by the local communities along the route. This service continues to provide local residents with access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities and onward travel from early morning to late evening.”

Further Information

For route and timetable information, visit www.locallinkdsl.ie

LXFlyer

The other enhancement is, as already mentioned, a big increase in service levels between Letterkenny and Burtonport (via Dungloe) which sees route 271 replaced by route 971 (the NTA are obviously taking the opportunity to renumber some of the Donegal routes that clash with routes elsewhere).

For those not proficient in Irish place names, the route serves the Donegal Gaeltacht, and in English is Burtonport to Letterkenny, via Dungloe, Loughanure, Crolly, Dunlewey and then Glenveigh and Church Hill.

It is again a sizeable expansion, with the frequency more than doubled and converting to a seven day operation.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-to-enhance-bus-services-from-ailt-an-chorrain-to-letterkenny-on-route-971/

TFI Local Link to enhance bus services from Ailt an Chorráin to Letterkenny on Route 971

4th October 2024

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is enhancing bus services between Ailt an Chorráin  and Letterkenny from the 14th of October.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 971 enhancing connectivity to An Clochán Liath, Loch an Iúir, Croithlí, Dún Lúiche, Glenveagh National Park and Church Hill

Route 971, formerly named Route 271, will now operate up to eight daily return services from Monday to Sunday. The route will provide enhanced connectivity to the villages and areas of An Clochán Liath, Loch an Iúir, Croithlí, Dún Lúiche, Glenveagh National Park and Church Hill.

The enhanced route will also provide peak-time and evening services for passengers,  along with enhanced connectivity to regional bus services and  ferry services in Ailt an Chorráin.

Donegal’s increasing daily frequency along with evening services Monday to Sunday

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim General Manager, Fiona O’Shea said: “We are delighted to roll out this enhanced service in Donegal, under the NTA’s Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. Route 971 (formerly 271), which has been in operation for a number of years, will now have increased daily frequency along with evening services Monday to Sunday, which will be well received by the local communities along the route. This service continues to provide local residents with access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities and onward travel from early morning to late evening. ”

Further Information on Route 971 (formerly Route 271)

For route and timetable information, visit www.locallinkdsl.ie

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122685962#Comment_122685962

I would totally agree with this. It's great to see these sorts of links being established and, more to the point, people actually using them.

It will be interesting to see if the Malin and Carndonagh areas get an increase in due course as well.

I'd also agree about the 992 - it needs a timetable recast as it was designed back when the lunchtime Dublin flights arrived and departed later.

nearby_cheetah

Is there any statistics on how many are using the services in the likes of North and West Donegal?

L1011

Only ever seen the headline figure - 3.2m system wide for 2023.

Some of the Donegal services I've been on have potentially unsuitably big vehicles as that's what the contracting companies have; so some of the services might look a bit under-used but that's cause 15 people rattling around a 53 seater looks a lot lighter than a 30 seater. But more comfortable than the 30 seater!

LXFlyer

Three more Donegal routes being enhanced from Monday 21st October, this time on the northwestern part of the Inishowen Peninsula.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-donegal-sligo-leitrim-announce-significant-increase-in-services-for-inishowen-peninsula/

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim announce significant increase in services for Inishowen Peninsula

11th October 2024

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is enhancing bus services around the Inishowen Peninsula, with three enhanced and one new service commencing operations on Monday the 21st of October.

Enhanced Route: 952 Carndonagh to Derry

Route 952 will now operate seven daily return services Monday to Saturday and six daily return services on Sundays. The enhanced route will provide a more frequent level of service throughout the day, catering to a range of journey purposes, including peak-time and evening services.

The route will serve Carndonagh, Quigley’s Point, Muff, and Derry, providing new Sunday services for the first time and improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services in Derry.

The route will offer enhanced connectivity for commuters to Derry, shift workers, and those traveling for social purposes.

Enhanced Route: 954 Malin Head to Carndonagh

Route 954 will now operate seven daily return services Monday to Saturday, and six daily return services on Sundays. The enhanced route will provide an increased frequency of service throughout the day, including early morning and late evening services, as well as peak-time services for commuters traveling to Derry.

The route will offer enhanced connectivity to Malin Head, Malin Town, and Carndonagh, as well as connections to routes 952 and 959 in Carndonagh. Additionally, the new service will introduce Sunday operations for the first time, improving access for tourists to Malin Head and supporting shift workers and social activities with later evening services.

Enhanced Route: 957 Greencastle to Derry

Route 957 will now operate seven daily return services Monday to Saturday and six daily return services on Sundays. The enhanced route will provide a more frequent service in both directions, with early morning and late evening options available. This includes peak-time services for commuters to Derry and later evening services from Derry, catering to shift workers and those socializing.

The route will offer new Sunday services for the first time and improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services in Derry, while serving the areas of Greencastle, Moville, Quigley’s Point, Muff, and Derry.

New Route: 959 Greencastle to Buncrana (via Carndonagh)

Route 959 will operate four daily return services Monday to Friday, and three daily return services on Saturdays and Sundays. The enhanced route will provide a new east-west connection across the Inishowen Peninsula, offering services throughout the day and evening. The route will extend to Letterkenny during the evenings and on Sundays, ensuring further connectivity when Route 951 is not in operation.

The route will serve Greencastle, Moville, Gleneely, Culdaff, Carndonagh, Ballyliffin, Clonmany, and Buncrana, providing these areas with improved and more regular bus services.

Frequent and reliable bus services for the Peninsula

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim General Manager, Fiona O’ Shea said:

“We are delighted to announce the launch of enhanced routes 952,957,954 and a new route 959. These services will significantly enhance connectivity, allowing our passengers seamless access to services and connectivity within Inishowen and County Donegal. We are committed to improving our services to meet the needs of our community and support their travel plans.”

Additional Information

For route and timetable information, call 074 9741644 or visit www.locallinkdsl.ie

LXFlyer

Also, from 21st October a brand new route 186 launches between Cavan, Ballyjamesduff, Virginia, Kells and Gibbstown.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-introduces-new-bus-service-route-186-between-cavan-and-kells-via-baile-ghib-on-21st-oct/

TFI Local Link introduces new bus service route 186 between Cavan and Kells via Baile Ghib on 21st Oct

11th October 2024

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan is introducing a new bus service between Cavan and Kells extending to Baile Ghib from the 21st of October.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 186 servicing Baile Ghib, Kells, Moynalty, Mullagh, Virginia, Ballyjamesduff and Cross Keys

Route 186 will provide six daily return services to Kells, including three return trips from Monday to Thursday that extend to Baile Ghib. On Fridays and Saturdays, there will be eight daily return services, with four of those extending to Baile Ghib. Additionally, on Sundays and Public Holidays, the route will operate three daily return services, all of which  extend to Baile Ghib.

Connecting Cavan Town, Cavan Bus Station and regional bus servicess

The new route will improve connectivity to the towns and villages of Kells, Moynalty, Mullagh, Virginia, Ballyjamesduff and Cross Keys. It will also offer peak-time and evening services for passengers and connectivity to Cavan Town, Cavan Bus Station and regional bus services.

The new route connects Baile Ghib and Cross Keys to the public transport network for the first time and offers a new direct route from Ballyjamesduff and Mullagh to Cavan.

Communities along the route will benefit

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan Manager Padraic Smyth said: “We are very aware that this particular route has been in demand for quite some time, and are delighted that the collaborative work between ourselves and the NTA has now resulted in this new service. We are looking forward to seeing the success of the service as it develops and hope that all of the communities along the route will benefit, as we believe that this type of connectivity will help sustain these areas ”.

Additional Information

For route and timetable information visit www.locallinkcm.ie

LXFlyer

Following the launch of the new Local Link route 186 above, Bus Éireann will implement revised timetables and some changes to routes on the N3 corridor from Sunday 27th October.

Revised timetables with longer running times which should improve punctuality will apply on routes 109, 109a, 109x, 111, 111a, and 111x.

Routes 103 and NX will both have revised timetables, and both routes will now operate outbound from Dublin via Broadstone and Phibsboro, instead of via Mountjoy Square and Whitworth Road.

Route 109b will have a revised timetable, and will no longer serve Knightsbrook estate in Trim, but will be extended to operate to/from Athboy via Kildalkey. The Sunday service will be increased.

Finally route 187 will be re-launched following the consultation earlier this year, and will now operate via a revised routing from Kells to Virginia, via Crossakiel, Oldcastle and Ballyjamesduff. The schools service between Virginia and Kells directly along the N3 will be maintained as it operates now. That was one of the main concerns raised by respondents to the consultation.

Route 187 will operate for far longer, with a better spread of departures through the day, and will now operate seven days a week.

https://www.buseireann.ie/news/n3-corridor-changes

N3 corridor changes due to commence on 27 October.

Monday 14 Oct 2024

Changes to services operating on the M3 corridor including Routes NX, 103, 109/a/b/x and 111/a/x

Customers should note of the following changes to services on the M3 corridor:

Route 103: Ratoath – Ashbourne – Dublin 

A punctuality revised timetable will be introduced on Route 103, to better reflect current traffic conditions and to provide a more punctual service. Departure times from the 1st stops will remain as at present but the departure times from intermediate stops may change slightly. As part of this change the outbound routing in the city centre change to better mirror the inbound routing.  The following stops will no longer be served Mount Joy Square West (1174), Innisfallon Parade (15) and Binns Bridge (834).  These stops will be replaced with Broadstone (195) and Phibsborough SC (198).  Emerald Park will no longer be served directly on this route and customers should now interchange onto Route 105 services in Ashbourne to travel to/from Emerald Park.

Route 109: Kells – Navan – Dunshaughlin – Dublin, Route 109a: Kells – Navan – Dunshaughlin – Ratoath – Ashbourne – Dublin Airport & Route 109x: Cavan – Kells – Navan – Dublin   

A punctuality revised timetable will be introduced on Route 109, 109a & 109x, to better reflect current traffic conditions and to provide a more punctual service. Departure times from the 1st stops will remain as at present but the departure times from intermediate stops may change slightly.

Route 109b: Dublin – Dunshaughlin – Kilmessan – Trim – Kildalkey – Athboy 

A punctuality revised timetable will be introduced on Route 109b, to better reflect current traffic conditions and to provide a more punctual service. Departure times from the 1st stops will remain as at present but the departure times from intermediate stops may change slightly. In addition to the these punctuality changes, Route 109b will now be extended to Athboy via Kildalkey.

Route 111: Athboy – Trim – Dublin, Route 111a: Cavan – Delvin & Route 111x: Clonmellon – Athboy – Dublin  

A punctuality revised timetable will be introduced on Route 111, 111a & 111x, to better reflect current traffic conditions and to provide a more punctual service. Departure times from the 1st stops will remain as at present but the departure times from intermediate stops may change slightly.

Route NX: Navan – Dublin 

A punctuality revised timetable will be introduced on Route NX, to better reflect current traffic conditions and to provide a more punctual service. Departure times from the 1st stops will remain as at present but the departure times from intermediate stops may change slightly. As part of this change the outbound routing in the city centre change to better mirror the inbound routing.  The following stop will no longer be served Innisfallon Parade (15).  These stops will be replaced with Broadstone (195) and Phibsborough SC (198)

Route 187: Kells - Crossakiel - Oldcastle - Ballyjamesduff - Virginia

p_haugh

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122718969#Comment_122718969

Routes 103 and NX will both have revised timetables, and both routes will now operate outbound from Dublin via Broadstone and Phibsboro, instead of via Mountjoy Square and Whitworth Road.

I'd imagine this is due to coaches frequently getting backed up along Witworth Road

LXFlyer

Another Donegal enhancement from October 21st - Local Link routes 966 and 992 will be merged to offer a new route 966 from Falcarragh to Dungloe, via Bunbeg, Crolly, Donegal Airport and Burtonport that will operate seven days a week.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-donegal-sligo-leitrim-enhances-bus-services-between-an-fal-carrach-and-an-clochan/

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim enhances bus services between An Fál Carrach and An Clochán

14th October 2024

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is enhancing bus services between An Fál Carrach and An Clochán Liath with effect from Monday the 21st of October.

Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Merging existing routes 966 and 992

The enhanced Route 966 will merge existing Routes 966 and 992, offering enhanced connectivity to An Fál Carrach, Doirí Beaga, An Bun Beag, Croithlí, Aerfort Dhún na nGall, Ailt an Chorráin, and An Clochán Liath.

Route 966 will now operate five daily return services Monday to Sunday. This upgrade introduces new peak-time and evening services, with increased frequency to improve connectivity with ferry services to Toraigh and Árainn Mhór, other bus connections including with Route 971 and flights to Dublin from Aerfort Dhún na nGall.

Key villages and areas served by Route 966 include An Fál Carrach, Gort an Choirce, Machaire Uí Rabhartaigh, Doirí Beaga, An Bun Beag and Croithlí, among others.

Enhanced connectivity to ferry services, Aerfort Dhún na nGall and other TFI Local Link servcies

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim General Manager, Fiona O’ Shea said:

“Route 966, which has been in operation for a number of years, will now have increased daily frequency along with evening services which will be well received by the local communities along the route.

“This service continues to provide local residents with access to education, employment, health, social and recreational opportunities and onward travel from early morning to late evening.”

For route and timetable information, call 074 9741644 or visit www.locallinkdsl.ie

Charles Babbage

This is one of the more positive initiatives.

So I went to the website, and clicked on what we are doing next.

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/timeline-and-what-were-doing-next/

the entire information provided is "The Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan will continue the roll-out of routes until 2026."

is there more information somewhere?

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122723593#Comment_122723593

There isn’t a public timeline for when changes will take place, other than it will take until 2027 (it’s taking a year longer due to funding issues per Anne Graham at the Oireachtas Transport Committee).

The phasing is completely dependent on resources (drivers, buses and funding) being available, and I think that, much like BusConnects, any phasing or dates that they might publish would probably not be worth the paper they’re written on due to resourcing issues.

I do update this thread with each change as it’s announced.

The broad plans are at the link below but some have been overtaken by services being more popular than expected and having to be further expanded, and others have had routings changed.

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Connecting-Ireland-Proposed-Network-Maps-2021.pdf

L1011

Old 966 was basically once a day with some oddities; 992 was 2x a day with only 1 going to the airport.

New 966 is still a tad odd in that it has different numbers of services and different service patterns in different directions, but its 4-5x a day depending on where you are; 4-5x serving the airport.

That's now up to 14x a day for Burtonport I think - there's still a private, but licenced route 961, 1x a day Crolly-Burtonport-Letterkenny on Dohertys. All from 2x not that long ago.

However, the flights and buses still don't meet well - one bus option gives 20mins to get off the plane to the bus, which is plausible if the flight is on time only; and the morning one gives you 40mins total between stated bus arrival and the flight. Will need to see how this beds in

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122723770#Comment_122723770

Not sure about the 20 mins?

The 12:50 flight arrival from Dublin has 35 mins before the bus departs at 13:25 and the 20:00 flight arrival has 45 mins until the bus leaves at 20:45.

nearby_cheetah

This is all getting a bit ridiculous, empty buses running around rural Ireland up to 14x a day. There's no need for it and just another hair brained idea from the Greens.

Why don't they focus on improving bus transport in the cities and towns which would benefit far more people and relieve congestion. Letterkenny has no NTA bus service. Buncrana has no bus service. Dozens of similar towns have no bus service.

Once the Greens are turfed out and if times get lean again, these bus routes will be the first on the chopping board and no-one will care too much, just like when Swilly ended.

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122726872#Comment_122726872

You do realise that the NTA have rolled out town bus services in Carlow, Kilkenny and Clonmel in the last few years, and are launching one in Portlaoise before the end of the year, and are planning for town services in Mullingar, Ennis and Letterkenny over the next few years.

The enhanced bus services across the country are anything but empty - I don't know where you're getting that idea. Passenger numbers are far in excess of expectations.

I find it difficult to believe that a policy that facilitates people to live at home and commute to nearby towns to work or study is a bad idea given the housing crisis.

There are new bus networks planned for all of the cities as well.

L1011

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122726872#Comment_122726872

The reason the services have been extended is that they are far from empty

nearby_cheetah

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122726992#Comment_122726992

They are empty, I've seen them tooting about the place when i'm up there.

Due to the one-off housing development in Donegal makes these buses even more useless unless you happen to live in one of the villages. If you live in the countryside and need to drive to the village to get the bus, you're gonna keep driving to get to the town. Who in their right mind will leave the car behind to get on a bus from Fanad which has to go to Rathmullen before going to Letterkenny?

It's a farce.

Their scope should be limited to morning and evening schedules only and proper investment in regular bus services inside bigger towns and cities.