Dublin MetroLink: Key Players & Timeline for Automated Rail Systems

Introduction

A consortium led by Plenary Group, including Webuild, Hitachi Rail, and Keolis, is preparing its tender for the design, construction, delivery, and operation of the MetroLink, the Dublin automated metro network. The tendering process, launched by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) on November 12, 2025, requires bidders to submit their offers by January 23, 2026, with contract assignment scheduled for April 2026.

Consortium Composition and Roles

Plenary Group will serve as the equity investor, financial sponsor, and lead coordinator for the consortium. Webuild will lead the design and delivery of the civil and structural works. Hitachi Rail will provide the rolling stock, advanced signalling systems, and full systems integration. Keolis will be responsible for the preparation and delivery of operations and maintenance services of MetroLink.

Project Timeline

The tendering process for the delivery partner of the Dublin automated metro network was launched by the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) on November 12, 2025. Bidders must submit their offers until January 23, 2026, and the contract will be assigned in April 2026.

Competing Consortium

Another consortium, comprising FCC, Meridiam, John Laing, RATP Dev, and Alstom, is also preparing for the pre-qualification and bidding phases of the Dublin metro project.

Network Details

The metro network will connect Swords, located 16.5 km north of Dublin city center, and Charlemont, 5 km south of the city center, passing through Dublin Airport. The north-south connection will span nearly 19 km, predominantly underground, and will include 16 stations, including one at the airport.

Conclusion

The MetroLink project in Dublin involves multiple consortia vying for the design, construction, and operation of the automated metro network. The tendering process began in November 2025, with a contract award expected in April 2026. The network will connect Swords and Charlemont, with a total length of almost 19 km and 16 stations.

Company Summary

Plenary Group: Will act as the equity investor, financial sponsor, and lead coordinator for the consortium.

Webuild: Will lead the design and delivery of the civil and structural works.

Hitachi Rail: Will provide the rolling stock, advanced signalling systems, and full systems integration.

Keolis: Will be responsible for the preparation and delivery of operations and maintenance services of MetroLink.

FCC: A member of a competing consortium.

Meridiam: A member of a competing consortium.

John Laing: A member of a competing consortium.

RATP Dev: A member of a competing consortium.

Alstom: A member of a competing consortium.