Sources disclosed that the focus of the new line would be opening up land in underdeveloped areas of north Dublin. A new office, the National Regeneration and Development Agency, will also be established to ensure that land is strategically developed across the country. However, it is now expected the line will be underground for longer, from the city centre to Ballymun or Santry, to allow for housing developments in these areas. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Mr Donohoe – both former transport ministers – believe the Metro will spur the development of housing in north Dublin. Mr Varadkar told the Dáil yesterday the overall plan would increase the density of Dublin to avoid city sprawl.

Source: The Irish Times February 15, 2018 01:30 UTC