MetroLink progresses first Archaeology contract to preserve Dublin’s heritage

MetroLink progresses first Archaeology contract to preserve Dublin’s heritage 

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), on behalf of MetroLink, has appointed five archaeology companies to a Qualification System to deliver archaeology works on the MetroLink alignment.

The first contract, which is being released to the first five qualified applicants to tender on, covers the most northern end of the line, from Estuary to Fosterstown and will be followed by further contracts covering other areas in due course. The qualification system is live and open for the duration of the MetroLink programme, and more applicants are invited to apply for the system in order to build resilience into the system.

CEO of the NTA, Anne Shaw said the appointment of five specialist archaeology companies to the qualification system marks an ‘important step forward’ in preparing for the delivery of MetroLink. “Archaeological expertise will play a vital role in ensuring that the programme is developed in a way that protects and respects Ireland’s rich cultural heritage, while enabling critical transport infrastructure to be delivered for future generations,” she said.

The appointment was also welcomed by CEO of Transport Infrastructure Ireland Lorcan O’Connor, who said this was ‘a key milestone’ in advancing the MetroLink programme. “Early engagement with experienced archaeological providers will help ensure that essential investigations and works can be carried out efficiently while safeguarding Ireland’s heritage,” he said.

This approach taken reflects MetroLink’s commitment to careful planning, responsible delivery and collaboration with industry to build the foundations for success, said MetroLink’s Programme Director, Seán Sweeney.


“Archaeological investigation will be a critical part of preparing sites for construction and ensuring that works are delivered responsibly. This approach reflects our focus on early planning and best industry practice,” he said.


Archaeological services ensure any artefacts, structures or remains are properly identified, recorded and preserved in accordance with heritage legislation and Railway Order requirements.


This not only protects cultural heritage but also reduces the risk of costly programme delays caused by unexpected discoveries. 


The works may include sharing of archaeological results through public presentations, digital outreach, community activities such as public exhibitions, school visits and open days to encourage public interest in heritage.

Scope of the Work:

  • Archaeological test excavations and surveys to ascertain the scope of archaeological features present within the MetroLink site from Estuary Complex to Fosterstown Station
  • Further archaeological excavations to resolve any archaeological features found. Associated reporting, analysis of artefacts and samples and dissemination services
  • The M130 Archaeology Consultant will carry out archaeological investigations and reporting at specific locations where archaeological constraints exist. The specific areas which require investigation are detailed in the contract drawings, and have been identified, by the Advanced Works Design Service (AWDS) through a thorough process including a detailed desktop assessment of previous archaeological investigations, existing heritage data on the NMS online Historic Environment Viewer, heritage maps and test slit trenches

 
The Archaeology Consultant will:

  • Obtain necessary licences to execute the works in accordance with statutory obligations
  • Develop the relevant method statements to meet the licencing requirements
  • Undertake the required stakeholder engagement
  • Fulfil the role of PSCS for the archaeology works and associated health and safety services until the appointment of a Utilities and Enabling Works Contractor under M141 Lot2
  • Undertake proactive engagement with relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment and compliance throughout the project lifecycle
  • Prepare comprehensive documentation, including traffic management plans, quality and environmental management plans, and detailed method statements
  • Disseminate Archaeological Results
  • Ensure timely and accurate reporting and publication of findings in accordance with contractual and regulatory requirements
  • Implement all associated health and safety measures to safeguard personnel and worksites
  • Carry out relevant surveying and monitoring
  • Conduct ongoing surveying and monitoring activities to support compliance and project progress
  • Providing site accommodation and welfare facilities
  • Provide reporting as required to Metrolink

This is an Open Qualification System (QS), and the five companies will be the first invited to tender for the first contract. The system is live and open for the duration of the programme and MetroLink welcomes interest from contractors that meet the required standards. Only suppliers successfully accepted onto the Qualification System will be eligible to tender for future Archaeological works.


Please find the PIN for the archaeology tender here European Dynamics - View DPS Workspace.


For more information and access to procurement materials, please visit the MetroLink Supplier Opportunities page on the official MetroLink website www.metrolink.ie 
 
MetroLink is Ireland's first fully automated, high-capacity metro system, designed to transform public transport in the city.  Spanning approximately 19km, it will connect Swords to Charlemont via Dublin Airport and the city centre. 
 
This innovative and vital programme is a cornerstone of Ireland’s climate and mobility goals, supporting economic growth as well as urban connectivity and renewal. It will offer new business opportunities for a wide range of organisations, from large international firms to locally based Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs). MetroLink will also support several thousand direct construction jobs for each year of construction activity up to its opening, as well as a further 2,500 to 3,000 indirect supply chain and support related jobs each year.  
 
For further information on this press release please contact Niall McHugh, MetroLink Strategic Communications Lead at Niall.McHugh@tii.ie.
 
Notes to the Editor:

MetroLink will deliver:  

  • World-class infrastructure for Ireland – will carry up to 53 million passengers per year
  • High frequency; capability to run every 90 seconds at peak time
  • Will carry 20,000 passengers per hour per direction
  • Airport to the City Centre in 20 minutes
  • 3,000 Park & Ride spaces
  • Easy interchange to Luas, Bus and Rail services
  • Less traffic on the roads
  • Environmentally friendly public transport 
     
Published on 24th March 2026