Passenger boardings in areas of Dublin where the new BusConnects network has been implemented are up 40% compared to the rest of the network according to a report published today by the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The figures were included in the BusConnects Dublin Progress Report, February 2025, a bi-annual report produced for the Oireachtas Public Accounts Committee. The report provides detailed metrics that demonstrate the progress of initiatives being implemented under the BusConnects Programme.
Progress includes:
Core Bus Corridors (CBC)
The CBC Project involves the development of continuous bus priority infrastructure and improved pedestrian and cycling facilities on key radial corridors across the Dublin region. The CBC Project encompasses the delivery of approximately 230 kilometres of dedicated bus lanes and 200 kilometres of cycle tracks in 12 separate schemes across five local authority areas.
Eleven of those schemes have been granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála with the focus of activity now moving to construction stage for the first two schemes. NTA is currently establishing a framework of contractors to build the schemes, with procurement for the first two those already schemes already in progress.
Network Redesign (NRD)
The redesigned network represents a major investment in enhanced bus services, delivering a 35% increase in annual scheduled service kilometres when compared to the old network. This includes a significant increase in overall capacity and frequency for customers with more evening and weekend services. As well as this, nine new 24-hour routes have been launched so far as part of NRD.
Up to the end of 2024, passenger numbers in areas where the new network has been implemented have increased by 48%, compared to 8% increase seen in the rest of the network.
Today’s report indicates that NRD has resulted in some improvements in punctuality and reliability, although the introduction of bus priority along the Core Bus Corridors and the new ticketing system will further improve these metrics.
Transition to zero-emissions
To date, BusConnects has introduced 110 electric buses into service, with charging capacity in place in Summerhill and Phibsborough depots. In total, the electric bus fleet covered nearly 2 million kilometres in 2024. This led to approximately 1,900 tonnes of avoided CO2 emissions, when compared to the emissions of diesel buses travelling the same distance. Reducing CO2 emissions will play a significant role in advancing the decarbonisation efforts of public transport, aligning with the goals of the Climate Action Plan.
NTA Interim CEO Hugh Creegan said: “The delivery of BusConnects is a key component of NTA’s Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, 2022-2042 and along with DART+, MetroLink and investment in new Luas lines.
“The growth in passenger numbers we are seeing is very encouraging and is a clear indication that members of the travelling public are responding positively to the improved service levels and greater connectivity that BusConnects offers.
“The BusConnects Dublin Programme has already delivered significant passenger benefits, but there’s more to be done. The introduction of bus priority along the Core Bus Corridors and the new ticketing system will shorten journey times, and improve punctuality and reliability, making travel bus an even more attractive option.”
