2024

ABERCORN ROAD AND EAST CHURCH STREET

A Shifting Landscape in Dublin’s Docklands

As I walked along Upper Sheriff Street, a sign caught my attention: “Abercorn Road: No Through Road to East Road From 19/11/2023”. This restriction could be a response to local protests against excessive construction traffic, a common concern in the rapidly developing Docklands area.

The corner of Abercorn Road and East Church Street presents a striking contrast between the past and present. A void now occupies the site where the Card Company building once stood. This multi-story structure, a landmark on East Church Street, was partially demolished following planning approval for a new mixed-use development. However, progress has stalled, leaving the site in limbo.

Meanwhile, just a stone’s throw away, the recently completed Stockyard office development towers over the traditional two-story houses and cottages that characterise Abercorn Road. This six-story contemporary building, with its basement car park, is a symbol of the ongoing transformation of the Docklands.

Abercorn Road: A Literary Legacy

Beyond its changing landscape, Abercorn Road holds a unique place in Irish literary history as the birthplace of renowned playwright Sean O’Casey. Born at number 18 in 1880, O’Casey’s childhood experiences in this working-class neighbourhood profoundly shaped his artistic vision. His plays, often set in similar environments, vividly depict the lives and struggles of Dublin’s working class, offering a window into the social and political realities of the early 20th century.

Community Concerns Amidst Redevelopment

The rapid pace of development in the Docklands has not been without controversy. Local residents and community groups have voiced concerns about the loss of community identity, the lack of affordable housing, the threat of gentrification, and the prioritization of commercial interests over community needs.

These concerns have fuelled protests and calls for greater community involvement in planning decisions, more affordable housing provisions, and the preservation of existing communities. While local politicians have acknowledged these issues, the challenge remains to balance the need for economic growth with the preservation of the area’s unique character and social fabric.

East Church Street: A Development in Limbo

The stalled redevelopment project on East Church Street adds another layer to the complex narrative of change in this area. Planning permission was granted in 2023 for the demolition of the remaining portion of the Card Company building and the construction of 28 apartments in a five to six-story building. However, the reasons for the delay remain unclear, leaving the future of the site uncertain.