Translink awards £548m contract for Belfast-Dublin Enterprise rail fleet

Translink and Iarnród Éireann have signed a £548 million (€698 million) contract with Swiss manufacturer Stadler for eight new inter-city trains serving the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise service. The cross-border procurement, jointly funded by the Northern Ireland Executive, Department for Infrastructure and Irish government's Department of Transport, includes €165 million (£143 million) through a Special EU Programmes Body-managed programme.

BBC reported that the new fleet aims to reduce journey times between Belfast's Grand Central Station and Dublin's Connolly Station to under two hours, compared to the current service exceeding two hours. The trains are purpose-designed for the cross-border route with approximately 400 seats and tri-mode capability operating on electric, diesel and battery power.

The procurement specifications address emissions reduction, accessibility and passenger experience improvements across the Enterprise service, which has operated between Belfast and Dublin for almost 80 years. The tri-mode capability enables seamless operation as the Belfast-Dublin line transitions toward full electrification.

Translink chief executive Chris Conway said: "Today is about turning long-term ambition into delivery. We would like to thank our funders for this investment which will transform the Enterprise experience, delivering a modern, high-quality journey that puts accessibility, comfort and passengers at the heart of this vital cross-border service."

The new trains will include step-free entrances promoting accessibility, modern digital information systems, power sockets and USB charging points, improved luggage and bike storage, a premium Enterprise Plus section and a large dining and bar area. The fleet will support expansion to up to 16 services per direction daily, strengthening cross-border economic, cultural and social connectivity.

Access complete details on the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise fleet procurement and delivery timeline.