George's Dock Bridge Reconstruction
Briefing on George’s Dock Bridge Fire and Luas Service Disruption
19 August 2025
On the evening of 19 August 2025 at approximately 7:00 PM, a major fire broke out beneath George’s Dock Bridge in Dublin’s Docklands. The blaze, fuelled by a ruptured gas pipeline, caused severe structural damage to the bridge, including buckling of beams which compromised the structural integrity of the bridge. Thankfully, there were no injuries to Luas passengers, staff, or pedestrians. Luas services to The Point were immediately suspended, and emergency procedures were activated by Transdev, with the affected section powered down. A bus replacement service, funded by the NTA was put in place, with frequent departures and full accessibility.
20-23 August 2025
Dublin Fire Brigade and Gas Networks Ireland responded promptly, bringing the fire under control later that night. Gardaí maintained control of the site until 23 August, while engineering teams from TII and Transdev mobilised on 20 August. During this period, three trams remained stranded at The Point, and a temporary Luas timetable was introduced, terminating at Connolly Station.
Between 20 and 23 August, initial damage assessments were carried out by Arup and RPS engineers. These confirmed significant damage to the bridge structure, rail systems, and utilities. On 22 August, TII and the NTA established the Docklands Bridge Remedial Works Group (DBRWG) with Transdev, Dublin City Council, and Custom House Docks Management Ltd to coordinate efforts to reinstate passenger services as soon as possible.
Two options were considered: a temporary support structure to allow partial reopening or full replacement of the bridge. On 29 August, the DBRWG decided to pursue the permanent replacement option to avoid future closures (i.e. next summer 2026) on top of closures to put install a temporary support structure. Public communications were issued on 31 August, advising of the closure and introducing a bus replacement service between Connolly and The Point, which commenced on 1 September.
Construction Works Information
Jons Civil Engineering was mobilised under TII’s Light Rail Construction Framework in early September to deliver the works as a design-and-build contract. The chosen solution was a prestressed concrete structure, which could be delivered faster than a steel composite alternative. On 1 September, engineers confirmed that new piles and pile caps would be required at both abutments. Piling began on 16 September, and bridge beams were scheduled for delivery in the week commencing 29 September.
The initial programme estimated 12 weeks for demolition, design, and construction, with a one-week float, targeting reopening by 28 November 2025. This timeline was extremely challenging and subject to a number of risks including delays with materials and complexities in designing new foundations for the bridge. As of mid-September, demolition was complete, Overhead Line Equipment and communications cables were decommissioned, and the Commission for Rail Regulation approval process for a new structure had begun.
All elements of the design and the works have followed the safety framework and safety procedures required by the Commission for Rail Regulation who have been involved in every stage of the process and have been extremely responsive in ensuring the tight programme could be achieved.
Luas services between Connolly and The Point will resume from 28th November, as major works at George’s Dock have been completed, in time for the Christmas season. These works have included replacing key bridge infrastructure, reinstating the Luas tracks, and completing essential utility and electrical upgrades.
This incident highlights the importance of rapid mobilisation, clear accountability, accurate structural data, and resilience planning across the light rail network. It also underscores the need for robust procurement frameworks and strong inter-agency collaboration during emergencies.
Explore photos and videos showcasing the construction works below.
Date published - 27.11.25