Preparatory works are needed in Finglas to keep the Luas project on track, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Dublin North West TD, Noel Rock, has called on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to begin advance works as soon as possible to ensure that the Luas project is not delayed and also in order to ensure protection of the land needed for the project.

“The potential land marked out in Finglas and surrounding areas currently has adequate vacancies and is owned by Dublin City Council. It is really important that this land is now protected for the Luas, particularly given all the competing demands for land in Dublin at the moment.

“It is also really important that the NTA start the necessary preparatory works to ensure that the Luas project is not delayed.

“I am calling on the NTA to begin route selection, protect the land and get Railway Orders signed. I am adamant that we get this project started as soon as possible and certain that the logic to this is indisputable: the land is vacant now, so let’s do these essential works as soon as possible.

“Bringing the Luas to Finglas is really important for the people in this community and surrounding areas. This major transport development is going to ease traffic congestion in the area and ensure a faster commute time for everyone to and from the city centre. It is badly needed and we don’t want to see any delays that could have been easily avoided.

“I am in regular contact with the NTA about the Luas project for Dublin North West and I am highlighting my suggestions in relation to the preparatory works with them.”