Manhattan Peanuts objects to Luas extension to Finglas

A food company has begun legal action against the extension of the Luas to Finglas in west Dublin.

The company behind popcorn, crisps and nut producer Manhattan Peanuts has applied for a judicial review of the extension of the tram network.

The company, Firethorn Limited, made a submission to the original planning application for the project, expressing concern about the impact Luas Finglas would have on lands surrounding its factory on McKee Avenue in Finglas.

In that application, the company said loss of lands beside its site would impact on the accessibility and development potential for the food producer.

The case is due for mention in the courts on 12 January.

Local Fianna Fáil TD Paul McAuliffe has expressed “deep disappointment” at the move.

“This is a transformative project that will deliver enormous benefits to our community and to an area of the city that currently has no rail commuting services,” he said.

“The Luas extension to Finglas will improve connectivity, attract investment and support sustainable growth in our area.”

An Coimisiún Pleanála approved the extension two months ago.

The project will involve the construction of tracks between the existing Green Line terminus at Broombridge and a new terminus at Charlestown in Finglas.

There will be four stops – St Helena’s, Finglas village, St Margaret’s Road and Charlestown – along the 3.9km route.

A park-and-ride facility will be provided at the St Margaret’s Road stop, close to the M50 and N2 roads.

The extension will serve an estimated population of 56,000 by 2035.

A morning rush hour journey time of around 30 minutes is anticipated between Charlestown and Trinity College. It currently takes about 44 minutes.

The Railway Order granted by the An Coimisiún Pleanála contains 12 conditions, mainly relating to environmental issues.

In its decision, the commission said that the “positive long-term impacts” of the project include the provision of faster and more reliable public transport services, improved pedestrian and cyclist safety and reduced traffic congestion.