Meath Street

DCC ARE IS SET TO EMBARK ON A MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT

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I made a bit of a mistake today as my intention was to visit Francis Street but as I got off the bus at the wrong stop I ended up visiting Meath street but that was not important as I later visited Francis Street.

Dublin City Council (DCC) is set to embark on a significant redevelopment project on Meath Street, aiming to revitalise this historic thoroughfare in the heart of The Liberties. This latest endeavour follows the successful transformation of nearby Francis Street and aligns with DCC’s broader vision of enhancing the area’s vibrancy while addressing the challenges of through-traffic in the city centre.

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Inspired by the positive outcomes of the Francis Street project, the Meath Street redevelopment envisions wider footpaths, the introduction of trees and public seating, and a focus on creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Measures to reduce the volume of through-traffic, such as restricting the carriageway to a single lane, will also be implemented. The overall aim is to foster a more inviting atmosphere for both residents and businesses, promoting a thriving street culture with opportunities for outdoor dining and markets.

While Francis Street and Meath Street share similarities as historical market streets within The Liberties, there are some notable distinctions. Francis Street boasts a greater concentration of antique and vintage shops, giving it a unique character. Meath Street, on the other hand, is known for its diverse range of food markets and independent shops, reflecting the area’s rich cultural mix. These distinct identities will undoubtedly inform the specific elements of their respective redevelopment plans.

The Francis Street project has been largely well-received, with businesses reporting increased footfall and a more pleasant environment. However, some concerns have been raised about the impact of reduced traffic accessibility on deliveries and residents. As DCC moves forward with the Meath Street redevelopment, it will be essential to carefully consider feedback from the Francis Street experience and engage in ongoing dialogue with local stakeholders.

This latest project marks another step in the DCC’s ambitious plans to rejuvenate The Liberties while respecting its deep historical roots. The transformation of Meath Street promises to enhance the area’s appeal as a lively cultural and commercial destination, contributing to the overall revitalisation of this cherished Dublin neighbourhood.

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As a matter of interest Meath Lane, which I also explored, connects Meath Street to Pimlico. I hope to explore the immediate area at a later date.

Here’s a breakdown of Pimlico in Dublin, including its history, location, and character:

History

17th Century Origins: Pimlico’s name dates back to the 1600s, likely borrowed from the Pimlico area in London. It hints at a desire to imitate London’s urban development at the time.

Weaving Community: Pimlico was historically a hub for Huguenot (French Protestant) and Jewish weavers who fled persecution. They brought valuable textile skills to Ireland.

Part of The Liberties: Pimlico falls within The Liberties, a historic area of Dublin known for its independent spirit, working-class roots, and once-booming textile industry.
Location

Dublin 8: Pimlico lies within the Dublin 8 postcode, southwest of the city center.
Boundaries: It’s nestled between Thomas Court to the north, Ardee Street to the south, and stretches roughly between Marrowbone Lane and Cork Street.

Iconic Neighbour: Pimlico is famously close to the Guinness Brewery at St. James’s Gate.
Character

Mix of Old and New: Like other parts of The Liberties, Pimlico has a mix of traditional terraced houses and newer social housing developments.

Small Community: Pimlico is a small area with a tight-knit community feel.

Local Shops and Businesses: While less focused on antiques like nearby Francis Street, Pimlico still hosts local shops, pubs, and businesses.

Redevelopment Potential: There’s ongoing interest in revitalising Pimlico while preserving its unique history and charm.

Things to Note:

“Pimlico” in Literature: The area is mentioned in some classic Irish literature, including James Joyce’s works, portraying its working-class character.

Ongoing Changes: Like other parts of Dublin, Pimlico is subject to change and development as the city continues evolving.

If you’d like to learn more, here are some resources:

Wikipedia Article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pimlico,_Dublin
Dublin City Council Archives: Can be a source of historical photos and records on Pimlico.
Local History Groups: There may be local history groups focusing on The Liberties and Pimlico, offering a wealth of knowledge.

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