Dear Sir, The recently introduced Dart+ strategy to remove the direct services from Howth’s Dart section, to me, seems analogous to rearranging the Titanic’s deck chairs (“Locals upset over Irish Rail’s feeder service idea for Howth Dart line”, News, September 3rd). It has been evident for multiple years now that the Dart service frequency is not sufficient to accommodate the number of passengers. The situation is set to worsen with the completion of the 879 new flats in Howth, currently being constructed or already have planning approval. Although converting the Howth branch into a shuttle would significantly elevate the number of trains heading to Howth and Drogheda, the capacity between Howth Junction and Connolly Station will experience little change, leading to potential overcrowding in this area. The only viable solution at present to address the issue is to introduce the discussed shuttle service. However, it should be an interim measure only, and it is concerning that no prior planning of the new proposed route mentioned in the Rail Review exists to manage the fast trains. Furthermore, there’s an absence of suggestion for a grade separation at Howth Junction to enhance frequency. It’s futile to stress over altering service patterns when there’s an existing dire need for an upgrade in infrastructure capacity, even more so with the imminent rise in the population within the catchment area. Yours sincerely,
IAIN Ó COIMÍN,
Callan,
County Tipperary.