Travel Experiences - Post Malahide Viaduct Collapse [Archive]

tigger1962

24-08-2009, 07:18

arrived Drogheda at 6.56.. We were told to board the buses outside the station. All buses were anchor tours. From my point of view... which is why i don't pay for a yearly bus ticket - severely cramped for someone my height.

the train from Dundalk took up two buses. both left approx 7.00-7.07. Went out old Dublin road and then on to the m1. There is was smooth until the Swords offramp where there was a tailback... I'm told there usually is at that time but it was moving. We went via port tunnel and arrived at Connolly Station at 7.54... not bad :) one minor worry was though when the driver didn't know what turn to take but thankfully someone on the front seat was able to tell him otherwise god knows where we would have ended up!

On leaving the bus an IE person told to to go through Platform 2 to the carpark for returning buses... In my case I'll have to leave work earlier to get home 20 minutes later!

chipper

24-08-2009, 07:18

I could be way off here but I suspect that people now using the bus from Drogheda will be pleasantly surprised. If they put on enough buses and get them moving on time then the journey will be faster than the train.

[edit]...Just seen Tiggers post above. It seems the bus took just 54 minutes. That is definitely faster than the train!

Aphfaneire

24-08-2009, 07:32

Awake 5.00Am

Bus Eireann bus from Drogheda bus depot at 6.20.

10 day weekly ticket 31.40 or so online, cheaper than train.

Seat comfertable but cramped, knees digging into seat infront. Ride to jolting to sleep or snooze. Several stops.

By the last stop in Balbriggan the Bus, full capacity 49, was full.

Dozen's of Confused Balbiggan residents were trying to board.

The driver explicitly told them that HE WAS NOT ACCEPTING RAIL TICKETS.

And that he had been told this from above but that he might be told otherwise later in the day.

He also stated that all other 101's will be Double deckers to cope with the overflow of passengers. He also radioed into his depot to inform them that he had reached capacity in Balbriggan.

When passing Drogheda station at 630 am there were at least 6 or so Double Deckers and Coach's parked in the second car park, all waiting for the trains.

Arrived in town at busaras at 7.40 or so.

Walked into docklands, across pedestrian bridge, up to Westlandrow/Pearse Street and Into Trinity.

The pipe dream is to do this all week. I hate the bus already. We'll see what it's like on the way home. 4pm or so from Busaras = NIGHTMARE!:rolleyes:

James Shields

24-08-2009, 08:37

Bit of an alarm clock mishap this morning, so still on the bus. About a third of Drogheda station car park has been turned into a bus depot, so severely reduced parking (fortunately I was cycling). Bus has been making good time and could well end up quicker than the train. It was worth selecting seat with care as some have more leg room than others.

Have to confess not as bad as I expected, but will that continue to be the case when the schools go back?

markpb

24-08-2009, 08:46

It says a lot that trains enjoy no speed advantage over buses, not only for intercity journeys but also for suburban journeys. Last year my girlfriend was commuting from Coolock to Ballsbridge and found the 27x regularly beat the Dart. That's all three classes of train journeys beaten by buses - a depressing anecdote.

Mark Hennessy

24-08-2009, 08:46

From what I heard on the radio this morning the first morning seemed to go ok.

There is still the issues of

a) Getting everyone home ok
b) Getting the same smooth running each day for the next 3+ months :(

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 08:53

Drove to Dundalk (Normally a 6:50 enterprise user from belfast) this morning, got the 7:16 train to drogheda, bus from car park to connolly. was at connolly at 8:40 - which is about the same time it takes the train so not too bad (Traffic was not as bad as I would have expected). Expect much worse when the schools are all back.

tigger1962

24-08-2009, 11:03

I'm presuming the 16.20 train from drogheda is the normal 15.20 enterprise... Buses for it are leaving at 15.00... no mention of any buses at 15.20?

RonanDonnelly1

24-08-2009, 11:47

Mark Hennessy

24-08-2009, 11:51

Anybody else having issues with the information posted about the alternative services for Donabate? I also understand that there will only be shuttle buses between 5 and 6pm, nothing for off peak or after 6pm - which is an utter disgrace!

Seems to be a case of it!

Shuttle Service from Malahide Station to Donabate Station
16:00, 16:20, 16:40, 17:00,
17:05, 17:20, 17:40, 18:05.

http://www.dublinbus.ie/en/News-Centre/Travel-News/Additional-Bus-Services-due-to-incident-at-Broadmeadow-Estuary-North-of-Malahide-Station-/

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 11:51

I'm presuming the 16.20 train from drogheda is the normal 15.20 enterprise... Buses for it are leaving at 15.00... no mention of any buses at 15.20?

maybe worth checking with Irish Rail, surely they will expect people to turn up after 3:00 for the 3:20 so the 3:30 busses must be scheduled to make the connection from drogheda...

sarabennett

24-08-2009, 12:31

I am usually up at 5.45am to catch the 7.02am from Balbriggan to Connolly, which gets in at about 7.50am.

Today I got the 33X at about 7.20am, got off in Fairview at about 8.40am, having been through Skerries, Rush, Lusk and along the M1 through the Port Tunnell. Got to work at 8.55am.

Checked the Ianrod Eireann website for information on getting back home and now the 33X is only going as far as Skerries with a rail transfer to Balbriggan? Absolutely unacceptable! The customer service agent at Connolly I spoke to said that Bus Eireann may start accepting rail tickets - there's a meeting today to decide.

I cannot spend 4+ hours per day going 18 miles. That is lunacy and the rail transfer via Skerries is an insult. :mad:

I have a monthly ticket for September. Does anyone know about getting a refund? I'd rather buy weekly tickets for Bus Eireann until all this is over.

citizens7

24-08-2009, 14:11

The 7pm Enterprise from Dublin normally timetabled to leave Drogheda at 19:31. Irish Rail advised me by phone that it will be approx 20:00 (8pm) before it now departs drogheda and maybe later (depends on busses from connolly reaching drogheda) but assured me that it wont leave until all the bussed passangers from Connolly connect for it (unlike friday when 3 busses of passangers scheduled for the 7 train from dublin did not reach drogheda in time for the train they laid on).

I called IE 1850 number today to ask them what bus I should to meet the 18:00 train from Drogheda to Dundalk, or the 19:00. For 18:00 I was told either 16:00 or maybe 16:30 bus or for 19:00 the 17:00 or 17:30 buses. But they couldn't guarantee the bus would be in time (obviously due to traffic) but the trains would leave on time regardless of what time buses were due to arrive. Are all the commuter trains north of viaduct being used for this service or could a more regular train service be added for the Drogheda to Dundalk connection ?
:confused:

tigger1962

24-08-2009, 15:24

i got the 15.00 bus from connolly... it left when it was full. got to Drogheda at 15.50... no train at the platform, we were told it hadn't arrived yet.. Enterprise from belfast arrived and we were boarded by 16.03... one wee issue.. although i think another bus arrived.. the train left at 16.15... unless this is a different service.. it was supposed to leave at 16.20? i wonder did everyone make the train?? the only holdup enroute was roadworks in drogheda.. single lane traffic.

Still day one over for today.. lets see how tomorrow goes..

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 16:00

I called IE 1850 number today to ask them what bus I should to meet the 18:00 train from Drogheda to Dundalk, or the 19:00. For 18:00 I was told either 16:00 or maybe 16:30 bus or for 19:00 the 17:00 or 17:30 buses. But they couldn't guarantee the bus would be in time (obviously due to traffic) but the trains would leave on time regardless of what time buses were due to arrive. Are all the commuter trains north of viaduct being used for this service or could a more regular train service be added for the Drogheda to Dundalk connection ?
:confused:

I rang 703 2359 again and the guy (info desk in connolly) advised that the Enterprise will not leave drogheda untill all busses that depart connolly at 7 reach drogheda. Albiet.... after fridays "guarantee's" that the train will be waiting in drogheda until all busses from the 7pm train got there was unfounded. I was on the 7 friday, told of an incident in malahaide and that they would be organising busses, the big problem was the 6:40 drogheda train had not left so everyone got off that and onto the enterprise and they all heard the message too then announced on the enterprise at about 6:55 so there simply wasnt enough busses, i eventually reached drogheda at 8:50 after maybe 20 promises that there were busses arriving in 5-10 mins!!! So fingers crossed, no mess up tonight.

For the drogheda - dundalk route, I noticed the 7:16 this morning was only 4 cars, so maybe they could run 2 x the normal services but as 4 cars with the peak periods obviously coverred sufficiently?

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 16:02

sarabennett

24-08-2009, 16:26

There are a slew of 33X buses leaving Lower Abbey Street for Skerries, according to the Irish Rail website.

And the train transfers from Skerries to Balbriggan...? A grand total of three: 16.00, 18.00 and 20.00. And the buses don't even drop you to the station - you have to walk?! A cruel joke - this is the best they could do? Have they ever noted just how many people get on and off the train in Balbriggan? The "alternate" 33 bus service goes everywhere in North County Dublin and takes two hours to get to town.

Bus Eireann are not honouring rail tickets but the "alternate service" being offered by IE is forcing me on to Bus Eireann.

Is anyone else experiencing this and if so, have you complained?

Mark Gleeson

24-08-2009, 16:30

There is a special direct bus to/from Ballbrigan as of tomorrow

We have pitched an idea to Irish Rail to get more trains running to Donabate

The Kew Tour

24-08-2009, 16:52

ThomasJ

24-08-2009, 17:12

how about a 33b to swords main street then a 102 to malahide DART station?

http://www.dublinbus.ie/en/Your-Journey1/Timetables/All-Timetables/102/

(Check the times for buses heading towards sutton station, there seems to be only 4 or 5 stages between swords main street and malahide station just check timings)

James Shields

24-08-2009, 18:30

Is there any reason why the shuttle bus from Donabate is not running between 9 and 4? It took me 2 and a half hours to get from Raheny to Donabate today. This is unacceptable. There seems to be a common view that rail users only go into Connolly.

I totally agree with you - it may only be a minority of passengers, but it has a huge impact on them. The train needs to run Dundalk-Donabate and there needs to be a bus connection between Donabate and Malahide or Howth Junction.

Mark Gleeson

24-08-2009, 18:38

Howth Junction is probably the better option, as you can dash down the N32 and shock use the bus lane!

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 19:00

got a bus at 6:50 from connolly, in drogheda now and no enterprise to be seen. so much 4 the info desks assurances that it would wait for all the busses from dublin.... i hate irish rail...

Mark Gleeson

24-08-2009, 19:00

Is there any reason why the shuttle bus from Donabate is not running between 9 and 4? It took me 2 and a half hours to get from Raheny to Donabate today. This is unacceptable. There seems to be a common view that rail users only go into Connolly. I have a meeting tomorrow again in Raheny at 12 o clock and I've been told that the best way for me to get there is to get the 33b to Swords, then a separate bus into town and then either a Dart or a bus to Raheny. Now excuse my French but somebody somewhere is having a f*****g laugh. Are Irish Rail and Dublin Bus really that ignorant of an entire community?

The issue of people traveling the 'wrong way' has been put to Irish Rail, not everyone is going to the city, there are numerous other journey options.

We are looking for a rail service between Drogheda and Donabate with a bus transfer from there to Malahide or Howth Junction (looks better), plus express buses from Drogheda and Donabate to the city which would cover all angles

tigger1962

24-08-2009, 19:47

in relation to the enterprise... as i said earlier I was on the "16.20" service from Drogheda which left at 16.15! I queried the onboard supervisor as to why it left 5 minutes earlier that the timetable... he stated that he left on time according to his timetable not Irish Rail timetable. He wasn't told to wait for any further buses from Dublin!

It might not be IE's fault for the train not being held! It actualy be translink!! :eek:

Colm Moore

24-08-2009, 19:48

There is some screwing around on the Enterprise timetable - both operators add time at the end so they are less likely to be "late".

Aphfaneire

24-08-2009, 21:33

Nice to see that Balbriggan is getting it's own service.

It seems my mother and myself chose the wrong way to get in, but it's cheaper for me, my mother looses out because she has a yearly ticket.

The 16.20 101 from Busaras was a chartered Coach, despite earlier suggestions of a Double Decker by my bus driver this morning. It was larger capacity, around 60 to 70. And guess what, 85% were all bound for Balbriggan.

In the end only 9 people got off at Drogheda, and we ended up being mere minute's metre's behind the bus that left 10 minutes earlier for parts of the route.

The adding of the port tunnel and M1 only for large sections increased the time of the route.

The idea that the bus was souley abused by lost and confused Balbriggan Residents really pissed me off. It's almost as bad as Malahide people sitting on commuter service's! Some people live at the end of the line!!!!!!!:mad:

citizens7

24-08-2009, 22:07

The timetable for drogheda to dundalk doesn't seem to have been following at all today based on comments in this thread and my own experience. I got on a bus at connolly which left at 16:33 today, it arrived into Drogheda at 17:16 (not bad). I then assumed I had to wait for the 18:00 commuter service to Dundalk as per timetable, but I was told there was an Enterprise due in at 17:30 but it was running late and should arrive about 17:45, I was also told that the 18:00 commuter wouldn't actually be leaving until 18:30, so no train was due to leave at 18:00.

We got on Enterprise at 17:52 and waited 10 minutes for other buses to arrive before it departed. So door to door 2hrs 50mins (usually 1hrs 35mins).

Question is why does the timetable (drogheda to dundalk) not include the Enterprise train times and why (on the first day) are the changing the timetable on the fly !

Also, and I asked this in earlier post, why can't the run 2 4-car trains up and down from Drogheda to Dundalk every half hour, that way they don't have to keep holding trains waiting for buses (other than Enterprise), there were 2 trains sitting idle in Drogheda while I waited 45 mins. they could have been up and back again (well nearly !).

irishsaint

24-08-2009, 22:16

the 7 enterprise left drogheda at 8:40... pity anyone who had to get the 8:45.... must have been very late? did anyone get the 4:50? what time did that leave drogheda? an excuse for late departures of enterprise trains from drogheda is refueling.. apparently, as its the only station with refueling capabilities now that the enterprise stops at, it has to travel from platform 1 down the line, change over and come back in by the fuel pumps... then vice versa. refueling takes 15mins apparently
but because of trains to from skerries, this is causing delays in the enterprise refuelling as it has to wait before crossing lines

chris

24-08-2009, 23:18

I was on the 16:50. Coach transfer to Drogheda went pretty smoothly, but the Enterprise didn't show until 17:45 and didn't leave until 17:55. There were further delays on the route like a door not closing at Newry and having to wait for Platform 1 at Portadown which brought the delay up to around 45 mins.

Not sure if the limited Enterprise sets north of the border can cope with what seems like a very tight timetable. Mark, is there any need to bring in a 6 car CAF set into the equation to improve punctuality? Passengers at Newry were pretty annoyed to be kept waiting for so long this evening, and I wasn't pleased but not surprised that there was no local connection waiting at Portadown

Mark Hennessy

25-08-2009, 07:50

Letter in the Times today about the Balbriggan situation.

Anyone know how the new direct buses from Balbriggan fared today?

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/letters/2009/0825/1224253192535.html

Madam, – As a resident of Balbriggan, Co Dublin, I was very disappointed on Monday morning to see that no decent structure had been put in place to accommodate rail commuters affected by the recent disruption at Malahide Estuary.

Dublin Bus can provide only extra buses from Skerries, so commuters have to make their way via rail/bus to Skerries and then walk to the Texaco Station to board the 33X. My journey from Balbriggan to Grand Canal Dock via bus and rail took two hours 30 minutes – including a lovely tour of north county Dublin.
...

Thomas Ralph

25-08-2009, 08:36

I have someone in work who got a bus from Balbriggan at 0645 and was in the city centre for 0730. Probably not representative, but an improvement on what was there before.

RHanaway

25-08-2009, 08:39

Things went smoothly this morning, I got the 8:00 bus from Drogheda and got off at 8:55, however the driver took us on a circuitous route out on to Amiens street rather that dropping us at the car park at the back of the station (different than yesterday when the driver had to ask for directions after exiting the port tunnel).

I see IR throwing out a figure of 3 months here(:confused: ) for bridge repair. Surely this needs to be more realistic, so people can plan long term arrangements with winter approaching.

RHanaway

25-08-2009, 08:54

Surely IE could run trains ar far as donabate with a direct feed to Malahide, am I missing something here bridge is the issue, it's less than 12k on a shuttle bus, huge impact on malahide though?

And we're not the only ones having problems http://www.independent.ie/photo-galleries/this-week-in-pictures-1864551.html :)

Mark Gleeson

25-08-2009, 08:57

Best go to Howth Junction, better road access, more frequent trains.

Audrey

25-08-2009, 09:40

Hi all,

I got a 6.55 coach from Balbriggan train station and made it to connolly at 7.30. fantastic!

There were 4 coaches in the car park waiting for commuters to arrive, soon as full they took off so it wasn't really as scheduled on their leaflets (6.30,7.00, 7.30 etc) Made it to my desk for 7.50 in D.8.
I hope IE continue this level of service for Balbriggan as I am very happy with the journey time.

We'll see how the return journey goes, it would be nice for a 4.30 return to balbriggan but sure I can't really complain as long as i don't have to use the 33 service.

OisinDunne

25-08-2009, 09:48

First Day -
Left Bettystown @ 6:45 for 7 am bus in Drogheda
Arrived Dublin - 7:55
Went for Dart to Grand Canal - Had to wait 16 mins due to timetabled Northern trains that are now not arriving

Arrived in office @ 8:30

Left @ 4 and walked to Connolly and got the 16:30 bus to Drogheda
Arrived at 17:15
Picked up car and back in Bettystown by 17:30.

Not too impressed with trains back to Laytown in evening which is why I drove to Drogheda. Schedule says 17:30 and then 19:30 but they put on a 18:30 one but can't confirm if it is going to be a permanent feature.

Not a fan of bus due to inconsistancy with traffic but I have to say this, if these bus times can be maintained from Drogheda, why bother fixing the viaduct.

Bus is quicker & you'll always get a seat.

2nd day - Same bus from Drogheda, same arrival time in Dublin but this time walked to Grand Canal in 20 minutes. At office by 8:15.

I know the fine weather and school holidays make a difference but all is OK so far. Will try the Laytown - Drogheda train service tomorrow and see how it works out.

There is 1 thing that IR should look at and that is contracting Matthews Coaches to accept Rail tickets. For some commuters, it would benifit and may remove the need to hire an entire bus at the €600 per day cost.

irishsaint

25-08-2009, 10:29

Not sure if the limited Enterprise sets north of the border can cope with what seems like a very tight timetable. Mark, is there any need to bring in a 6 car CAF set into the equation to improve punctuality? Passengers at Newry were pretty annoyed to be kept waiting for so long this evening, and I wasn't pleased but not surprised that there was no local connection waiting at Portadown

In relation to this, how feesable would it be for Irish rail to extend its commuter service from Newry - Drogheda and Drogheda - Newry? Translink could run enterprises and cafs from Belfast to Newry and Newry - Belfast.

Basically if they extended the 6:35 from dundalk to 6:15 start in Newry and 07:16 from dundalk to a 6:55 start in newry would mean a huge amount for the commuters relying on the enterprise which barely makes connolly for 9:30 now. worse expected when schools get back.

Other direction, extend the 18:00 from drogheda to newry and translink pick up with a caf from newry at 18:45? It gives a few extra options for us and at least I wouldnt be getting into work at 10:00am

Mark Gleeson

25-08-2009, 10:36

irishsaint

25-08-2009, 11:06

Safety rules prohibit the use of the 29k fleet into Northern Ireland, they lack UK cab signaling equipment, only a small fleet of locomotives and 6 of NIR 3Ck's carry both Irish and UK cab signaling equipment.

We have suggested to Irish Rail to either borrow the NIR gatwick set or to reinstate a set of Mk3 coaches lying in Dundalk to service and borrow locomotive 112 from NIR

well thats that then, stuck with the old "reliable" enterprise. Friday and Monday now, the 7:31 enterprise from drogheda to belfast has left late. I believe its new time is 7:45 departure, friday it left at about 9:20 and yesterday it left drogheda at 8:40, infact, it had not even arrived from belfast before it was even due to depart drogheda!!

chris

25-08-2009, 12:31

Well NIR can definitely afford to spare one of the sets allowed to operate cross-border or the Gatwick set. They recently cut some peak services on the Portadown line.

Were the safety rules UK-wide or imposed by the NI Parliament? Is there any chance N Ireland could get a derogation?

Mark Gleeson

25-08-2009, 12:36

They are UK wide and where in-acted separately for NI

irishsaint

25-08-2009, 13:21

anyone know how the enterprise has been doing today? is it keeping reasonable departure times from drogheda?

Aphfaneire

25-08-2009, 13:56

The 6.20 101 from Drogheda to Dublin was a double decker this morning.

It wasn't needed.

The Balbriggan Passengers must have all switched to the new direct buses.

So this means they not taking up excessive space, but Drogheda bound buses had added capacity that was not needed.

But it's Bus Eireann so it won't last long since spill over will all switch to the Train replacement buses over the next few weeks.:rolleyes:

Either way the situation is pretty bad.

In 5 weeks time i'll have to be in James's Hospital for 7am or so. This will probably mean a 5am 100x or something like that. I haven't looked at the schedual yet but i'll actively check all my options and possibly do a test run or two to figure out how to get there...:confused:

Mark Gleeson

25-08-2009, 14:08

anyone know how the enterprise has been doing today? is it keeping reasonable departure times from drogheda?

We have member on the 3pm bus out of Connolly for the 15:20 Enterprise, he has mobile boardband ;) so expecting word soon!

tigger1962

25-08-2009, 14:23

tigger1962

25-08-2009, 15:20

the bus arrived at 16.00 at Drogheda depot. The incoming Enterprise from Belfast arrived at 16.03 with the announcement that it was out of service and not to board the train - i overheard the bus drivers saying that they were due to head back to Dublin at 16.00 so presumably it was a few minutes late? ... Unlike yesterday it did not leave at 16.15. an announcement just made stated that we are waiting on another bus.. later than 15.20 from connolly???? and we are waiting for it to arrive, so they are holding back the enterprise for passengers.

irishsaint

25-08-2009, 15:22

I presume the member he talking about is me :) ok I arrived for the 15.00 bus and was told to board a second bus as first one was drogheda only. This was not the case yesterday. I was told this one left at 15.20. it left on schedule. Now lets hope enterprise doesn't leave at 16.15 as it did yesterday!!
thats not encouraging... i assume all busses are drogheda only?

as for the enterprise, let us know how you get on, im aiming to get the 7 again (20:00 from drogheda according to irish rail) so will keep you posted on that but so far its been at least 40mins late departing.

tigger1962

25-08-2009, 15:27

ok scheduled departure 16.20... actual departure 16.26

didn't actually see anyone board and i was beside the drogheda exits

tigger1962

25-08-2009, 15:30

i was told the timetable was for commuters only :o that the enterprise buses were seperate.. strange that they wouldn't let me board that bus especially as i'm a commuter... maybe i'm just too intimidating! :D

Aphfaneire

25-08-2009, 15:37

The 16.20 101 to drogheda is NOT taking the port tunnel like yesterday and is crawling up the drumcondra road, just fueling the traffic further. skipping straight to the airport should be better than adding to an awful clog on a tiny road:mad:

irishsaint

25-08-2009, 15:42

ok scheduled departure 16.20... actual departure 16.26

didn't actually see anyone board and i was beside the drogheda exits

well thats not too bad, 6 minutes behind the new schedule (thats about what, 45mins or so slower than had it left connolly). Well, let us know of any mechanical issues now that you are on it... it wouldnt be like it to make it to central without something going wrong...

Does any one know what the normal refuelling arrangements were for the enterprise - it never had a scheduled refuelling in drogheda to my knowledge and I have never seen it being refuelled in connolly.

also, how logistical would it be to actually transfer the other enterprise sets by road north of malahide?

RHanaway

25-08-2009, 15:44

Mark Gleeson

25-08-2009, 15:53

Does any one know what the normal refuelling arrangements were for the enterprise - it never had a scheduled refuelling in drogheda to my knowledge and I have never seen it being refuelled in connolly.

also, how logistical would it be to actually transfer the other enterprise sets by road north of malahide?

Normally fueled in Dublin at the platform, Drogheda isn't set up for this so the detour is required since the locomotive is on the wrong end so to say

The 3rd enterprise set is stored in Inchicore in Dublin. Logistically it would be a challenge to move all 8 coaches and the locomotive but possible. Irish Rail by chance have 2 intercity sets stored in Dundalk which could be put to work

ThomasJ

25-08-2009, 15:55

Surely the later buses must be going via the port tunnel. IE probably think that the traffic will be light enough for the Drumcondra road and may be trying to save some money. Earlier today they brought us through the M1 toll and the port tunnel.

that 101 aphfaneire is referring to going via drumcondra is a bus eireann bus (if im not mistaken) nothing to do with IE, it doesnt look like bus eireann is working in conjunction with ie. the service via drumcondra could be a scheduled service, scheduled to take in stops through that route.

finnyus

25-08-2009, 16:31

The 3rd enterprise set is stored in Inchicore in Dublin. Logistically it would be a challenge to move all 8 coaches and the locomotive but possible. Irish Rail by chance have 2 intercity sets stored in Dundalk which could be put to work

With the problems the Enterprise coaches have fequently, plus the locos that operate with them, it would be better to use the InterCity stock stored in Drogheda - that way the locos would not need to supply power to the coaches! Is there much rolling stock stored North of Malahide? Can IE cope with an Enterprise failure?

Thomas Ralph

25-08-2009, 17:43

Aphfaneire

25-08-2009, 17:46

that 101 aphfaneire is referring to going via drumcondra is a bus eireann bus (if im not mistaken) nothing to do with IE, it doesnt look like bus eireann is working in conjunction with ie. the service via drumcondra could be a scheduled service, scheduled to take in stops through that route.

IT is a Bus eireann route. The bus at that time yesterday however took liberty and went via the Tunnel and used the M1 for several stretches.:rolleyes:

He was basically a chartered coach who just went straight to the airport, then switched driver's there and kept taking short cuts. It wasn't even a B.E owned bus yesterday.

Today however it went the full route, and took nearly 30 minutes longer. Exact time's i'm not sure of as i don't really care yet, but it will matter if i have to rely on it.

Next week i should be taking the IE provided coaches with any luck.:rolleyes:

Charlie Hungerford

25-08-2009, 20:59

We have suggested to Irish Rail to either borrow the NIR gatwick set or to reinstate a set of Mk3 coaches lying in Dundalk to service and borrow locomotive 112 from NIR

To be honest, reinstating a MK3 set would be far better for both NIR and Irish Rail than using the Gatwicks.

For a start, NIR have just converted their gatwick set for PP operation, which means that they are probably planning to put it to more intensive commuter use in the near future.

A MK3 set would have more carriages and would be comfortable for passengers, especially if there is a Citygold coach in Dundalk - which means they'll be able to preserve some semblance for first-class service. There may even be a catering coach - which the Gatwicks would lack.

I think that you really need to push for a MK3 reinstatement - regardless of IE management's well-established preference for shoving Enterprise passengers in the relatively poor quality Gatwick set when they have better alternatives available.

Charlie Hungerford

25-08-2009, 21:02

Either way the situation is pretty bad.

Indeed. Using Bus Eireann added over an hour to my commuting today. I shudder what to think it will be like in a few weeks.

James Shields

25-08-2009, 21:42

I'm officially irritated. I got caught late at work, but hadn't made a note of the replacement bus timetable, and couldn't get into the flash document thingy on either my phone or my work computer. Why aren't they listed in the online timetable?

I arrived at Connolly at 9:20 thinking there'd surely be a bus to replace the commuter train around that time, only to be told there's nothing between 21:00 and 23:20. So now I'm getting thrown around north Dublin on the 101.

The driver did say that IE will refund my fare. What are my chances do you think?

citizens7

25-08-2009, 23:47

Its only day 2 and I'm already fed up of the waiting around in Drogheda to get a train to Dundalk. Why can't they just run buses from Connolly to Dundalk train station, surely the saving on diesel will outweight the cost of hiring the coaches each day ?

Padna

26-08-2009, 08:05

I got to Connolly just before 18:00 on Tuesday evening (25th) and got on bus to Drogheda which left at 18:05. Arrived in Drogheda Station at 18:55. Supposed to be a commuter train to Dundalk at 19:00 but staff member said it would be at 19:07. Train arrived on platform at 19:10 and left at 19:11.

While waiting on Dundalk train, a commuter train left Drogheda for Skerries at about 19:00 or 19:05. According to the timetable there's supposed to be a service to Skerries at 17:30 and then 19:30!

I have my doubts about the reliablity of the timetable with regard to commuter trains from Drogheda to Dundalk & Skerries in the evenings.

roamling

26-08-2009, 08:08

The traffic on the M1 this morning was very heavy around the Donabate/Lusk Exit, then it got better. I spend about 15 mins extra going from Lusk to Clontarf (I left Lusk at around 7.10am). I would say later the traffic gets heavier later.

My wife went on the 33 from Lusk to Swords (around 7.50 am), she says bus was ok, there seemed to be extra capacity (2 buses at the same time)

tigger1962

26-08-2009, 11:11

bus left drogheda at 7.05 this morning, looked like they needed more buses than yesterday. travelled in convoy to dublin... Was a little slow again at the Swords/skerries offramp but moving... actually got into Connolly at 7.46 by my watch.. 7.50 when i looked at the ifsc clock.. Even though it was a horrible morning..

irishsaint

26-08-2009, 14:08

got 7:16 dundalk to drogheda, bus transfer left almost immediately from drogheda (two busses) neither were full. arrived in connolly 8:35, made the 8:41 southbound dart which was showing to be platform 5, then changed to 6 as it arrived (same thing happened yesterday) and it doesnt wait about so you have to run around to make it.

also, the 19:00 drogheda - dundalk was late leaving drogheda last night, left at 19:11 and arrived in Dundalk at 19:32 - Enterprise had just pulled in (should be departing drogheda at 20:00) so doubt that left on time as i'd say it hardly made drogheda for 20:00?

tigger1962

26-08-2009, 15:15

enterprise arrived 16.05 in drogheda.. presumably will leave soon.. Due to a late work day tomorrow I'm driving dundalk to Howth Jct (I'm lucky to have parking nearby) based on train timetables i don't think i'd like the evening session.. as i plan on leaving howth jct about 7pm..
enterprise leaving...16.15

losexpectation

26-08-2009, 16:23

did you catch this

http://www.politics.ie/current-affairs/95685-breaking-news-part-dublin-belfast-rail-line-collapses-5.html#post1995322

A chap in work was on his way home on Friday and his Train was stopped before reaching the bridge.
After a long delay,driver told them that they wouldn't be going any further..no problems there.

So most of the passengers got Dart back in to Connolly....
In Connolly told Train tickets would be honoured by Bus Eireann.
..... Hundreds trundle over to Busarus....
In line for buses, buses come along after 25 minute....
then told Train tickets were not valid for buses .... back over to Connolly .......
Delegation from Connolly go to Busarus .... heated discussion ....
Train tickets honoured on bus Eireann buses.

I know it was an unexpected event, but you would think Iarnrod Eireann would have a contingency plan that would fall straight into place.

make of it what you will

irishsaint

27-08-2009, 10:02

also, the 19:00 drogheda - dundalk was late leaving drogheda last night, left at 19:11 and arrived in Dundalk at 19:32 - Enterprise had just pulled in (should be departing drogheda at 20:00) so doubt that left on time as i'd say it hardly made drogheda for 20:00?

I didnt think too much of this, saw it as an oversight but.....

Monday, I arrived into Drogheda via bus from Connolly, at about 19:55 - waiting for the Enterprise. There was a train on platform 2, empty. No announcement and just before 20:00 it left heading north bound - I over heard someone ask an IE official on duty was it going to dundalk and he said yes(which was too late at that stage)... there was about 20 people on platform 1 going to dundalk!! Anyway, Saw it as a once off. was talking to a chap last night who was waiting for the 20:00 enterprise to go to dundalk and a train again on platform 2 left just after 20:00 (no sign of enterprise at this stage). He asked one of the IE officials where it was going and was told dundalk... he said why didnt they announce that and the reply was..... "its in the timetable".... (there is a 19:45 in the timetable so it appears IE expect us to assume that the train times in their new emergency timetable are running 20mins late?) I must say, mornings are fine but evenings, nobody in drogheda station seems to give a rats ar*e..... they dont keep us informed. The best info they can give is, there will be one along soon... Everytime a trian arrives you have to ask, where is that going. 3 days, 3 different replies so far, "nowhere", "back to skerries" and "dundalk" for trains all around the same time give or take 5mins of 20:00...... and they have the freaking cheak to say "its in the timetable!!!"
I know with the 20:00 Enterprise, they say it will be departing at 20:00, when I got there at 19:50ish they told me it would be here in a few minutes. So fine but when in didnt actually depart till 20:50, that was a full hour hanging about....

Experience summed up so far:
There appears to be a gradual recognition by IE that dundalk commuters are annoyed and they appear to be addressing this. Cross border commuters as usual are left hung out to dry, IE wont take responsability nor will NIR.... try doing a days work, board a bus at 17:30 in connolly and not get home till 22:45.........

roamling

27-08-2009, 11:33

My wife left Lusk 7.30am this morning. There was a Dublin Bus Conductor supervising the flow of buses and explaining to people when the next buses where due. Buses went smooth.

at least somebody is doing its job...

irishsaint

27-08-2009, 14:35

http://www.nirailways.co.uk/enterpriseserviceinformation.asp

Enterprise Service Information
A bus substitution will operate on Enterprise services between Drogheda and Dublin until further notice. The service disruption is due to extensive civil engineering works to repair the railway bridge at Malahide. Bus substitutions will be operated by accessible vehicles.

Really? I aint seen any dissable friendly busses opperate from drogheda. Anyone else?

Charlie Hungerford

27-08-2009, 14:55

irishsaint

27-08-2009, 15:12

You should cut them a little slack - they have to refuel the locomotive in Drogheda which I don't think they've had to do for a long-time. It must be pretty awkward as the loco is on the wrong end of the train for access to Drogheda depot.

Once they wrangle a third set for the Enterprise, I think that punctuality will improve significantly.

well, when you relly on the now "old 7pm" service to belfast from connolly to get you home for 9:20ish. their contingency (which they say allow "approx" 30mins to your journey).... i dont see how 1 hour 30 mins late is acceptable.

They have refuelling capability in the york st depot, takes a train 4 mins to get there from central and it doesnt have to change lines. Unlike drogheda, the enterprise is getting about 15 -20 mins turn around time in central...... maybe it should unload, go to the depot refuel and the collect from central... might leave a few mins late but its not going to delay it 45mins... sometimes i leave things thinking there must be a logical reason why they are not doing something that seems logical, other times i complain but experiences to date... they never ever do the logical thing.

tigger1962

27-08-2009, 15:13

Bus substitutions will be operated by accessible vehicles.

Most the buses I've been on were not accessible?

Fyi... I drove in this morning, left kilcurry at 08.07 - arrived Howth Jct at 9.10.. no parking near station so I parked at my relations..(about 5 mins walk)

so that wasn't bad but the route i took has at least 4 schools which were not in operation today.. I don't think I could do this again

I'll see how i get on later as I hope to be leaving Howth Jct at 6.30ish.. well dart/train from pearse at 6ish..

Mark Gleeson

27-08-2009, 15:17

They have refuelling capability in the york st depot, takes a train 4 mins to get there from central and it doesnt have to change lines. Unlike drogheda, the enterprise is getting about 15 -20 mins turn around time in central...... maybe it should unload, go to the depot refuel and the collect from central... might leave a few mins late but its not going to delay it 45mins... sometimes i leave things thinking there must be a logical reason why they are not doing something that seesm logical, other times i complain but experiences to date... the never ever do the logical thing.

Problem is you can't do Dublin-Belfast-Dublin on a single tank of diesel, you need to top up in Drogheda to be sure. It might be 4 minutes to York Road but the Dargan Bridge is in the way and its single track and full of local commuter trains.

The only solution is a third train which would relieve the pressure

Sure they could turn the trains around but then fueling in Belfast becomes difficult, while Drogheda would still be a challenge, though easier

tigger1962

27-08-2009, 15:22

they don't refuel at the 16.20 service!! its a matter of wait until everyone is off the train.. then board... wait a few minutes and its off again!!

irishsaint

27-08-2009, 15:26

Problem is you can't do Dublin-Belfast-Dublin on a single tank of diesel, you need to top up in Drogheda to be sure. It might be 4 minutes to York Road but the Dargan Bridge is in the way and its single track and full of local commuter trains.

The only solution is a third train which would relieve the pressure

Sure they could turn the trains around but then fueling in Belfast becomes difficult, while Drogheda would still be a challenge, though easier

but i encountered the same problem monday in drogheda - a train from skerries was due to arrive so the enterprise had to stay in platform 1 (20:00). when the commuter train arrived the enterprise went southbound, changed over line and then came in to refuel. then at about 20:40 the train in platform 3, went back to skerries (at this point the enterprise had refuelled but was waiting for the skerries train to leave) before pulling out southbound again to change back over and come into platform 1.

Now the enterprise is doing Belfast - Drogheda - Belfast... can it not stretch on a tank of fuel now that its cut out dublin?

Fine the route needs a third train but how the hell are we suppose to get through this... leaving dublin at 5:30 an not getting home till 10:45... plain and simple, not acceptable.

RHanaway

27-08-2009, 18:22

Roadworks in Drogheda are extending the journey in the evening.
Surely an alternate route could be taken to the station.

James Shields

27-08-2009, 20:38

Just offering other options, would terminating Enterprise in Dundalk make things any easier? It would cut out a big chunk of time, and possibly the need to refuel at the southern end. Would mean an extra connection, which would be a pain for anyone with luggage, but if a commuter train was waiting cross platform, the transfers could be quick and it could make the timetable workable with two Enterprise sets.

James Shields

27-08-2009, 20:43

http://www.nirailways.co.uk/enterpriseserviceinformation.asp
Really? I aint seen any dissable friendly busses opperate from drogheda. Anyone else?

Depends... Does "carry passenger up to coach seat and throw wheelchair in luggage compartment underneath" count as accessable?

I haven't seen any disabled users try to use it yet.

irishsaint

27-08-2009, 22:12

Ok so here is the latest news etc that i can find out/ source from nir.

The 3rd enterprise set which should be in use is being stored in inchicore. It is hoped that at some stage over the weekend, it will be loaded to truck and transferred to belfast to be put back into use...i dont know how reliable it is this is but that it came from a translink official can only be posative. Next up is fully fuelled,the Enterprise is able to do Dublin - Belfast - Dublin x 2 before requering to be refuelled again. Note, it is currently only going as far as drogheda. There is no reason why the enterprise cant be refuelled in york st depot, its just practice was to refuel through out the opperating day in dublin... so its just changed to drogheda!!

I see a previous post about the road works etc.... its a nightmare..... there must be another way into drogheda that is not too inconvenient?

Mark Gleeson

27-08-2009, 23:02

But its no longer in Inchicore its in Heuston, highly unlikely to be honest, when there are 3 usable sets elsewhere

James Shields

28-08-2009, 00:02

I see a previous post about the road works etc.... its a nightmare..... there must be another way into drogheda that is not too inconvenient?

Agree the road works are a pain. I was on the 9pm bus tonight. Made Connolly to start of road works in 38 minutes, then was stuck for a further 10 minutes.

The alternative is to stay on the motorway to the next exit and come in to Drogheda by the Duleek or Donore roads and back to the station. This would also avoid Julianstown, so would definitely save time. The trouble is it would mean paying €5 per bus for the toll bridge.

chris

28-08-2009, 07:50

The alternative is to stay on the motorway to the next exit and come in to Drogheda by the Duleek or Donore roads and back to the station. This would also avoid Julianstown, so would definitely save time. The trouble is it would mean paying €5 per bus for the toll bridge.

Surely some arms could be twisted to either curtail the roadworks or drop the toll for rail replacement services?

Also, are there any plans to start at least enabling work as far as balbriggan on electrification? the travelling public will NOT be happy if this line is forced to close again unnecessarily for that.

irishsaint

28-08-2009, 08:23

But its no longer in Inchicore its in Heuston, highly unlikely to be honest, when there are 3 usable sets elsewhere

Perhaps they are going to load it at heuston to truck.

irishsaint

28-08-2009, 08:59

stuffit

28-08-2009, 10:37

The Connolly to Drogheda bus drivers are total pr**ks.

They are refusing to stop en-route to Drogheda.

There are plenty of people living just off the Dublin Road who are driven right past their housing estates as the buses approach Drogheda. The drivers are refusing to stop and let passengers off the bus.

There are road works for the next three months 1 km south of Drogheda. Only one lane is in use with temporary signals operated by the construction crews. This results in 10 minute tailbacks at the road works. Why not let the passangers disembark if they wish. It's no inconvenience to the driver. The bus has to stop anyway so the total journey time wouldn't be impacted.

This intransigence is adding 20 minutes travel time to anyone living on the south side of Drogheda.

Also anyone living in Laytown might want to exit the bus as it leaves Julianstown. Instead they are forced to travel to Drogheda and wait for a train to take them back in the direction they've just travelled from. Commuters must wait 30 minutes on average at Drogheda station for the train service to Laytown.

RHanaway

28-08-2009, 10:51

They are refusing to stop en-route to Drogheda.

They can't just stop anywhere someone fancies getting off.
However, a little common sense is called for here when the bus is going to be stopped for 5 mins let people off (if its safe to do so), your correct it has no impact on journey time. Also would it kill the drivers to stop for 1 min in Julianstown???

irishsaint

28-08-2009, 11:05

I actually think its down to the drivers.... there was one I had (hawaii five owe)... wearing his really cool blue shaded raybans with his bluetooth earpiece, this guy would have made the hoff look ordinary in red swim shorts.

anyway... this chap was the driver i had wed evening and he had a sign cellotaped to the front of the bus saying, no request stops allowed. Someone did ask him when stuck in the road work tail back and he said no.

Yesterday evening, before the tailback at the old europa hotel a bus driver stopped and let someone out then drove on and when we got stuck in the chaos of the road works, about a dozen people got off..... its completely down to to who the driver is..... some are ordinary decent folk, some are not.

Mark Gleeson

28-08-2009, 11:12

Due safety reasons we have been told most drivers will not allow you off the bus in Julianstown

You can of course travel, Dublin Malahide - bus Donabate and train onwards to Drogheda if you wish, that will run all day as of Monday

ThomasJ

28-08-2009, 11:23

anyway... this chap was the driver i had wed evening and he had a sign cellotaped to the front of the bus saying, no request stops allowed. Someone did ask him when stuck in the road work tail back and he said no.

Yesterday evening, before the tailback at the old europa hotel a bus driver stopped and let someone out then drove on and when we got stuck in the chaos of the road works, about a dozen people got off..... its completely down to to who the driver is..... some are ordinary decent folk, some are not.

i think the driver is doing it at their own discretion and own risk.

i dont know about be or the other bus companies but ive heard dublin bus hq have been instructing their drivers not to let passengers on/off between stops and that they are using security cameras to ensure this is been adhered to.

Colm Moore

28-08-2009, 11:58

The Connolly to Drogheda bus drivers are total pr**ks.

They are refusing to stop en-route to Drogheda.I think thats a little unfair.

1. Bus companies are only allowed serve bus stop.
2. While drivers may occassionally allow passengers off if they are stuck in traffic and they happen to be up against the kerb, there is no way there are going to do it if they aren't up against the kerb - they can't risk someone falling, espcially if that person is inconsidate. Foul mouthed people are often inconsiderate.

If you want an addtional stop provided, talk to the bus company (possibly Irish Rail in this case), not the driver.

roamling

28-08-2009, 12:21

If you want an addtional stop provided, talk to the bus company (possibly Irish Rail in this case), not the driver.

I agree. the bus companies have their own safety standarts and we should be glad that Dublin Bus and others are actually trying to cope with the mess IE created in the first place. The bus driver cant just let people off because their house might be in sight but there is no bus stop. IE should take the complaint about any inconvenience caused and then try to fix it, not the busdriver.

tigger1962

28-08-2009, 12:25

irishsaint

28-08-2009, 12:32

the 7:35 Dublin - Belfast Enterprise was delayed by about 30 minutes this morning, should have left drogheda at 8:30 but didnt leave till about 9:00... this will have a continuous knock on effect for the whole day.

the 12:15 enterprise from drogheda (old 11 from connolly) was delayed about 25mins - left at 12:30.... looks like that knock on from this morning is causing 30mins delays on the new emergency timetabled enterprise departures from drogheda....

tigger1962

28-08-2009, 15:37

yep it is.. the incoming train from belfast arrived 16.28, it was one of those new commuter machines. Left at 16.33.. quick turn around.

irishsaint

28-08-2009, 16:01

yep it is.. the incoming train from belfast arrived 16.28, it was one of those new commuter machines. Left at 16.33.. quick turn around.

yep, that is! thats 13mins late dept so they have made up time at least... all will be lost though at 20:00 when the nightmare refuelling ritual begins..

citizens7

28-08-2009, 16:03

Surely some arms could be twisted to either curtail the roadworks or drop the toll for rail replacement services?

Also, are there any plans to start at least enabling work as far as balbriggan on electrification? the travelling public will NOT be happy if this line is forced to close again unnecessarily for that.

For passengers going to Dundalk and further north why can't a bus be run directly from Connolly to Dundalk station.

citizens7

28-08-2009, 16:05

I don't think this is fair on the bus drivers... you can't get off a train mid stop and the service is from station to station. They are not advertised as being a bus service just as a stopgap to those who have to get to dublin and back to drogheda ... if you want to get off at a bus stop use the advertised Bus Eireann services! :mad:

I agree, its bad enough having to stop for roadworks without having to stop to let people off who can't be bother walking from Drogheda station as they would have done when trains were running.:mad:

Colm Moore

28-08-2009, 18:56

Update: http://www.railusers.ie/forum/showthread.php?p=48919#post48919

roamling

02-09-2009, 07:42

normal 33 Bus service was affected in Lusk yesterday and today in the morning. today a Dublin Bus Conductor as well as local politicians were present at the bus stop taking notes.

the issue was that the extra 33X buses showed up, but the "normal" 33 bus (for example for people going to swords) was irregular. this is not acceptable that the normal bus users face disruptions because of the IE disruption.

furthermore traffic on the M1 into town is quiet heavy compared to last week. commuters using the car and the end of the school holiday definitely have a negative effect on travel times

markpb

02-09-2009, 09:42

The Connolly to Drogheda bus drivers are total pr**ks. They are refusing to stop en-route to Drogheda.

I guess this is as a result of a DB case with the LRC a few years ago. The DB union (and they were backed by the LRC) claimed that if a driver let passengers off at an un-designated bus stop and the passenger injured themselves, the driver himself and not the company could be sued for damages. Put in those shoes, I wouldn't let people off between stops either.

Mark Gleeson

02-09-2009, 19:44

There are three threads related to the Malahide Viaduct

http://www.railusers.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=10257 for latest travel details

General discussion of the viaduct collapse in this thread please http://www.railusers.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=10256

Passenger experiences and travel advice here http://www.railusers.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=10264

Posts will be moved by the moderators to the most appropriate forum!

Neutraliser

03-09-2009, 08:29

I am an annual ticket holder normally travelling from Laytown. Since the collapse I have travelled on the buses provided at Drogheda and Connolly.
This has been my experience to date.

4 of the buses had wasps (I assume they had not purchased valid tickets!).
3 of the buses had dirty or poorly functioning seatbelts.
1 of the buses had a suspension system which was malfunctioning in that the bus bounced vertically several times each time it came to a stop.

All of these items are safety issues - ask anyone allergic to wasp stings. One hopes none of the drivers suffer from that. Anaphylaptic shock can be fatal.

Other issues
5 of the buses had poorly functioning air conditioning (too cold).
None of the buses had adequate cabin stowage for a mid sized daily commuter type knapsack.
Average commute time Drogheda to Connolly has been 50 minutes (departing approx. 7.00 AM). I measured it.
On contacting the lo-call number on Friday 28th August, I was on the line for 20 minutes before I got to talk to someone who could actually be even mildly assistive.
The timetabling of the evening trains from Drogheda to Laytown last week was abysmal (at a frequency of 2 hours).
This week the first train from Laytown Northbound is 07.30. Thats not good enough.
There seems to be lots of jobs for men (very few women), with clipboards at the stations. One questions the extent of their value add.

Am I alone in my views?

plant43

03-09-2009, 10:02

But its no longer in Inchicore its in Heuston, highly unlikely to be honest, when there are 3 usable sets elsewhere

It is now back in Inchicore.

Mark Gleeson

03-09-2009, 10:14

It is now back in Inchicore.

The game to hide it continues :rolleyes:

Thomas Ralph

03-09-2009, 10:29

Welcome to the board, Neutraliser.

My immediate suggestion is that in the case of wasps, malfunctioning seatbelts, malfunctioning suspension, and air conditioning issues, you inform the bus driver immediately of the problem. Chances are he won't have noticed, and only if someone brings it to his attention is there any chance of anything getting fixed.

I don't think IÉ or the bus companies can do anything about Dublin traffic or congestion on the phone lines with so many people ringing in.

The first northbound train from Laytown was at 0752 before the collapse, so 0729 seems to me to be an improvement. If you're looking to get into the city centre early, get a southbound train at 0612 0636 0707 or 0748, change at Balbriggan onto a direct bus service at 0630 0700 0730 and 0800 respectively, or at Skerries onto the 33X, or at Donabate onto a direct bus service to Tara Street, or at Donabate onto a bus to Malahide for the DART.

Drogheda-Laytown is now gone hourly or more frequent.

irishsaint

03-09-2009, 14:23

1 of the buses had a suspension system which was malfunctioning in that the bus bounced vertically several times each time it came to a stop.

I've been on that twice!!! Its like "pimp my ride"!!!!!!

Des Gargan

04-09-2009, 08:21

You think you have issues, try working late in Dublin and getting back to the in between stations on the northern line after 9.00 at night. It cant be done.

Thomas Ralph

04-09-2009, 10:00

You think you have issues, try working late in Dublin and getting back to the in between stations on the northern line after 9.00 at night. It cant be done.

Have you tried taking the 33 bus?

chipper

07-09-2009, 08:16

Average commute time Drogheda to Connolly has been 50 minutes (departing approx. 7.00 AM). I measured it.

This is at least 15 minutes faster than the train. I know three people who commute from Drogheda and all agree that the viaduct collapse has been a very good thing. I do appreciate though that if you use the other stations it is a different experience.

citizens7

07-09-2009, 09:28

The New Enterprise timetable (6th Sept onwards) states that the 08:00 from Belfast stops in Dundalk at 09:10. I understand from talking to staff in Dundalk that this is not the case and the timetable is wrong.

James Shields

07-09-2009, 19:23

I'm not very happy with the off peak bus timetable. In particular, if I go out after work, I used to have at least one train per hour. I now have a bus at 21:00, (which is a bit early, as many of the people I'd meet after work would tend to go home first and wouldn't get back till about 8pm), or waiting for the 23:20, meaning I don't get home till after midnight, (which may be enjoyable socially, but not condusive to a productive next day at work).

From tomorrow there's a new bus timetable that drops several services.

roamling

18-09-2009, 16:18

today about 30 to 40 people were left standing in Swords as the bus heading towards Ballbrigan was full to capacity. This was around 3.30pm. The bus did not even stop at the bus stop. It stoped at a red light and left 1 person off whereas all the others stayed on board. People waiting at the bus stop were running towards the bus at the red light to get on but the bus was full and went on. The next bus was due in 1h.

Usually lots of people get of in Swords and travellers from Swords towards Lusk, Rush and so one can get on. In this case we can assume that lots of people who would have usually taken the train were on that bus (and not to mention all the school children which are adding extra capaity.)

So here we have the classical scenario were normal 33 bus travellers (who don't have the option to use the extra buses set up by IE because these dont go through Swords) are severly affected by the the train disruptions.

This is not acceptable. I rang IE and complained about the issue today. They need to provide the capacity for the train customers AND the regular bus customers. Dublin Bus is not to blame for what happened today.

roamling

21-09-2009, 18:34

I used the 33X for some days now, here my impressions and comparison with the train:

1. Train (from East Point Buisness Park to Lusk leaving at 4.30pm):

- going to Clontarf Dart station > take Dart to Howth Junction > take Communter to Lusk > walk from train station in Lusk to Lusk Village > 75 min

2. 33X (from East Point Buisness Park to Lusk leaving at 4.30pm)

- going to 130 Bus stop on the Howth Road > take 130 bus to city centre > take 33X from Custom House Quay to Lusk Village (trough port tunnel) > 60 min

(fare with travel 90 ticket € 1,80 one way)

that is taking into account all normal heavy traffic on the Quay's and road works on the motorway