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AIB BUSINESS BANKING CENTRE IN CORNELSCOURT VILLAGE

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PHOTOGRAPHED OCTOBER 2024

Cornelscourt is home to a major AIB complex.

The AIB complex in Cornelscourt is a striking landmark in south Dublin, easily recognisable by its modern, angular design. Located prominently on the N11, it’s a significant presence in the area, serving a dual purpose:

  1. A Hub for Business: This is primarily a Business Banking Centre, catering to the needs of AIB’s corporate and business clients. It likely houses dedicated teams of relationship managers, financial advisors, and other specialists who provide tailored services and support to these customers. This focus on business banking makes it a key location for AIB and highlights the importance of this customer segment.
  2. A Modern Workplace: The building itself is a testament to modern architecture and workplace design. Replacing an older, outdated structure, it boasts a spacious, light-filled interior and a distinctive exterior with a “twisted arrangement of floor plates.” This unique design, by Kavanagh Tuite Architects, aimed to create a high-quality building with strong environmental performance, reflecting AIB’s commitment to sustainability and providing a modern, efficient working environment for its employees.

Why it’s of interest:

Architectural Significance: Its unique design makes it a standout building in the area and an interesting example of contemporary Irish architecture.
Economic Importance: As a Business Banking Centre, it plays a vital role in supporting businesses in the region and contributes to the economic activity of south Dublin.
Historical Context: The site has an interesting history, having previously housed Ireland’s first experimental drive-through bank in 1990. The current building represents a significant evolution of the site and its function.

While not a primary data centre as claimed by some, the AIB complex in Cornelscourt remains an important facility for the bank and a notable landmark in the area. Its focus on business banking and its modern design make it a point of interest for those interested in architecture, business, and the development of the Cornelscourt area.

I VISIT GRIFFITH AVENUE SECTION BY SECTION EVERY AUTUMN

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14 OCTOBER 2024

The N2 bus service provides a convenient link between Heuston Station and Griffith Avenue, making it a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, or navigating multiple bus changes. Another useful feature is that it stops at the Broombridge LUAS tram terminus and train station where one can get a train to Sligo and the twice an hour service to Maynooth.

Griffith Avenue stands out for being the longest purely residential tree-lined avenue in Europe. Stretching over 2 kilometres, it runs from Malahide Road to Mobhi Road, gracefully weaving through the neighbourhoods of Marino and Drumcondra in Dublin.

Originally envisioned as a grand entrance to a luxury housing estate in the early 20th century, Griffith Avenue quickly became a sought-after address. The avenue’s distinctive character is defined by its mature trees, primarily lime and elm, which form a verdant canopy overhead. These trees, planted in the 1920s, create a tunnel-like effect, offering shade in summer and a blaze of colour in autumn. It’s this autumnal spectacle that draws me back year after year, camera in hand, to capture the falling leaves and the avenue bathed in golden light.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Griffith Avenue played a significant role in Dublin’s history. During the Irish Civil War, it served as a base for anti-Treaty forces. The avenue’s wide expanse and strategic location made it ideal for military manoeuvres. Today, remnants of this turbulent period can be found in the form of bullet holes that still scar some of the older buildings.

Despite its historical significance, Griffith Avenue retains a tranquil atmosphere. The wide pavements and relatively low traffic volume make it a haven for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a leisurely stroll, appreciating the beauty of the surroundings and the changing seasons.

The N2 bus service is a relatively new addition to Dublin’s public transport network. It operates between Heuston Station and Clontarf Station, running primarily through the north side of the city.

Here are some of major stops along the route:

Here’s the corrected list of major stops, including Broombridge:

Heuston Station: The starting point of the journey, this station is a major transportation hub for intercity and commuter rail services, as well as the Luas and numerous bus routes.
Phibsborough: This stop serves the Phibsborough area, a vibrant district with a mix of shops, restaurants, and residential areas.
Ballyboggan Road: This stop provides access to the residential areas of Glasnevin and Finglas.
Broombridge: This stop provides access to the Broombridge LUAS Green Line terminus, allowing passengers to connect to various destinations along the Green Line. It also serves as a train station with regular commuter services to Maynooth and intercity services to Sligo, further enhancing its connectivity within the wider Dublin region.
Griffith Avenue: This stop provides access to Griffith Avenue, a long, tree-lined avenue known for its residential character.
Marino: This stop serves the Marino area, a charming village-like neighbourhood.
Clontarf Road Station: The final stop on the N2 route, this station offers connections to the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) service.

EXPLORING ASHTOWN VILLAGE IN DUBLIN 7 AND DUBLIN 15

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PHOTOGRAPHED 11 OCTOBER 2024

Ashtown is a suburb of Dublin, located in the civil parish of Castleknock. While it falls primarily within the Dublin 15 postal district, some addresses use Dublin 7. Here’s a look at its history and recent developments:

Historical Background

Early origins: Ashtown’s history can be traced back to at least the 12th century, with evidence suggesting possible Viking settlement in the area even earlier. Its name, Baile an Ásaigh in Irish, translates to “town of the ash tree”, likely referencing the trees that once flourished in the region.

Ashtown Castle: One of the area’s most significant historical features is Ashtown Castle, a medieval tower house dating back to the 15th century. Originally part of a larger fortified manor, the castle was once owned by the Ashtown family, who held considerable influence in the area. Though it fell into ruin, it was restored in the 1990s and is now a protected structure within the Phoenix Park.

Royal Canal: The Royal Canal, constructed in the late 18th century, played a pivotal role in Ashtown’s development. It facilitated trade and transport, connecting the area to Dublin city and beyond.
Recent Developments

Residential growth: Ashtown has experienced significant residential growth in recent years, with the construction of new housing estates and apartment complexes. This has led to a considerable increase in population density.

Improved infrastructure: Transport links have been enhanced, with the Ashtown railway station providing convenient access to Dublin city centre. Road infrastructure has also been improved, with upgrades to the Navan Road.

Amenities and facilities: A range of amenities and facilities have emerged to cater to the growing population, including shops, restaurants, and recreational areas. The proximity of the Phoenix Park provides substantial green space for residents.

Community development: There’s a strong community spirit in Ashtown, with active resident associations and local groups contributing to the area’s development.

BALNAGOWAN HOUSE WAS ONCE AN ART DECO GEM

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NOW IT IS A DERELICT RUIN

The recent fire at The Haven, which tragically destroyed outbuildings on the grounds of Balnagowan House, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of this architectural gem. Located off Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Balnagowan House stands as a testament to Ireland’s early embrace of Modernist architecture.

Wendon House, later renamed Balnagowan, was a marvel of modern luxury hidden behind an unassuming exterior. While the street presence was understated, the interior was a testament to cutting-edge design and comfort.

Architect Harold Greenwood, under the direction of developer George Linzell, incorporated features that were ahead of their time:

Modern Conveniences: Central heating, concealed lighting, and an internal telephone system for seamless communication with staff.
Luxurious Amenities: Bedrooms with private hand basins and built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms, and a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room with electric hotplates to keep food warm.
State-of-the-art Appliances: A laundry room equipped with a washing machine, connected to the upper floors by a laundry chute.
Modernist Design Elements: Oak panelling and chrome light-switches added a touch of sleek sophistication.
Linzell, who built speculative houses in Dublin, leveraged his own residence as a showpiece of modern luxury living, attracting discerning buyers. Later occupants further enhanced the property with additions like a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouses, and outbuildings, while strategically planted trees provided privacy from the neighbouring Bons Secours Hospital.

The house changed hands several times over the years, with notable residents including publican John Doyle, who renamed it Balnagowan, and the Quinns, the last family to reside there. Before its current vacancy, it served as the headquarters for the Central Fisheries Board.

WHEN YOU ARE IN DUBLIN YOU SHOULD VISIT ST ANNE’S PARK

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A RANDOM COLLECTION OF IMAGES

Why Visit St Anne’s Park?

St Anne’s Park, a sprawling 240-acre oasis on Dublin’s northside, offers a delightful escape from the urban bustle. Here’s why it should be on your Dublin itinerary:

International Rose Garden: Immerse yourself in the beauty and fragrance of over 2,000 rose varieties, a true spectacle during the blooming season (June-September).
Historic Charm: Explore the remnants of the Guinness family estate, including follies, bridges, and a rustic cave, adding a touch of history to your visit.
Recreational Paradise: Enjoy a range of activities, from leisurely walks and picnics to golf, tennis, and even boules.
Family Fun: Let the little ones loose in the playground or explore the park’s many hidden corners.
Nature’s Embrace: Stroll through woodlands, admire the water features, and spot diverse birdlife in this urban sanctuary.
Farmers Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Saturday market, offering local produce, crafts, and tasty treats.

Getting There:

St Anne’s Park is easily accessible by various means:

DART: Take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) to Raheny or Killester station and enjoy a short walk to the park. This is a good option for accessing the northern end of the park.
Bus: The 130 bus route serves the park directly, stopping at the Red Stables entrance which provides access to the Rose Garden and playground. This is a convenient option if you’re coming from the city centre or Clontarf Station. Other bus routes (H1, H2, and H3) also serve the surrounding area.
Cycling: While there are no Dublinbikes stations within or near the park, there are docking stations nearby on Clontarf Road and Howth Road. Cycling within the park is enjoyable with dedicated paths.
Car: Ample parking is available within the park, making it convenient for those driving.

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