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DUBLINBIKES DOCKING STATION No73 MARCH 2024

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REVITALISING FRANCIS STREET AS A FRIENDLY URBAN SPACE

DublinBikes, the city’s successful bike-sharing scheme, has transformed the way Dubliners and visitors experience urban spaces. This postargues that DublinBikes plays a crucial role in revitalising areas like Francis Street, exemplified by docking station 73 at the historic yet long-neglected Iveagh Markets. We’ll examine how DublinBikes contributes to accessibility, sustainability, community vibrancy, and economic growth in such locations.

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Accessibility: Bridging Distances and Gaps

Connecting the Historic Liberties: Francis Street, situated in the historic Liberties, boasts a rich heritage but has experienced some decline. DublinBikes docking stations like No73 provide convenient, affordable public transport options. This enhances accessibility for locals and tourists, bringing them closer to the street’s shops, antique stores, and cultural offerings.

The Last Mile Solution: Docking stations address the “last mile” challenge in public transport. Commuters arriving by bus or Luas (tram) can use DublinBikes to complete their journeys, encouraging the use of public transport overall.

Inclusivity: The ease and affordability of DublinBikes make cycling more accessible to individuals of varying fitness levels and economic backgrounds. This democratises transportation choices within the city.

Sustainability: Promoting a Greener Dublin

Reducing Congestion and Pollution: By offering an alternative to cars, DublinBikes contribute to reduced traffic congestion on streets like Francis Street. This leads to improved air quality and noise reduction, making the area more pleasant for residents and businesses.

Encouraging Active Lifestyles: DublinBikes promotes cycling as a healthy and sustainable mode of transport. This supports the city’s goals of combatting obesity and reducing carbon emissions.
Community and Economic Benefits

Creating a Focal Point: Docking stations naturally become local landmarks and meeting points. The activity surrounding station No73 injects energy into the once-overlooked Iveagh Markets site, bringing heightened visibility to the area.

Supporting Businesses: Increased foot and cycle traffic from DublinBikes users translates to potential customers for Francis Street businesses. This supports local shops and contributes to the street’s economic well-being.

Fostering a Sense of Place: DublinBikes becomes part of the urban fabric. The presence of docking stations, especially at significant sites like the Iveagh Markets, enhances the sense of place and community pride.

The Future and Potential Challenges

Integration with Redevelopment: As the Iveagh Markets undergo redevelopment, it’s vital that DublinBikes are fully integrated into future plans, ensuring ample docking facilities and safe cycling infrastructure.

Expansion and Equity: Continued expansion of the DublinBikes network is essential to ensure equitable access across all neighbourhoods. Areas similar to Francis Street should be prioritised for further docking stations.

Maintenance and Availability: Addressing issues of bike availability and ensuring well-maintained docking stations is crucial to maintaining public trust and scheme utilisation.

Conclusion

DublinBikes is more than a mode of transport; it’s a catalyst for urban improvement. Docking station 73 on Francis Street serves as a powerful example of how the scheme can revitalise areas, promote healthier lifestyles, boost local economies, and forge a more connected and sustainable Dublin. The continued success of DublinBikes relies on strategic expansion, thoughtful urban integration, and addressing user needs to ensure it remains a vital component of the city’s future.

The Iveagh Markets – Current Status

Sadly, the Iveagh Markets on Francis Street remain largely derelict despite attempts at revitalisation. Here’s the current status:

Ownership: Dublin City Council owns the site.
Failed Redevelopment Plans: Previous attempts at redevelopment largely stalled due to various issues including legal disputes, funding shortfalls, and disagreements over the project’s scope.
Recent Progress: In late 2022, Dublin City Council secured €9 million in government funding for essential conservation works on the historic building. They’ve appointed architects to oversee initial surveys, cleanup, and stabilisation.
Uncertainty Remains: While the funding is a positive step, a full, comprehensive redevelopment plan has yet to be finalised. There is no definitive timeline for when the Iveagh Markets might reopen or what form the project will ultimately take.

Potential Directions:

Mixed-Use Development: Most proposals involve converting the Iveagh Markets into a mixed-use space, with a combination of retail, food markets, cultural spaces, and potentially even residential units.
Community Input: There’s a strong push for community involvement in shaping the future of the Iveagh Markets and ensuring the redevelopment benefits the local area.

Challenges:

Cost: The extensive works required carry a significant price tag, and securing further funding will be essential.
Delays: The project has a history of setbacks, and it’s likely that further delays are possible.
Balancing Interests: Finding a redevelopment plan that balances historical preservation, community needs, and commercial viability will be a complex task.

Where to Find Updates:

Dublin City Council: Check their website (https://www.dublincity.ie/) for project announcements.
Local News: Dublin-based news outlets will cover developments.
Community Groups: Organizations like the Friends of the Iveagh Markets might have more grassroots information.

Overall: The Iveagh Markets, though still in a state of disrepair, have entered a new phase with the recent funding secured for conservation work. The future remains uncertain, but there’s renewed hope for eventual restoration of this important Dublin landmark.

MORNING STAR AVENUE

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A DUBLIN STREET DEVOTED TO FAITH AND CHARITY

Located near the centre of Dublin’s North Inner-City lies Morning Star Avenue, a street where echoes of religious devotion intertwine with a vibrant spirit of charity. This unassuming street harbours a rich history connected to Dublin’s Catholic institutions, evident in the organisations that line its sidewalks and the statues that cast their watchful gaze.

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Historical Foundations

Morning Star Avenue’s origins are closely linked to the nearby North Union Workhouse, built in the 1840s as a response to poverty during the Great Famine. This imposing complex expanded alongside the growing need for institutional care, leading to the construction of several associated buildings including the Whitworth Hospital and the Hardwicke Fever Hospital. The area’s strong association with care for the sick and destitute shaped its unique character.

The Legion of Mary and Religious Presence

The Legion of Mary, a worldwide lay Catholic organisation founded in 1921, has long had a significant presence on Morning Star Avenue. Their Morning Star Hostel, a grand red-brick building, stands as a testament to their mission of providing shelter and support. The neighbouring Regina Coeli Hostel, also run by the Legion of Mary, extends their charitable work by offering a safe haven for women experiencing homelessness.

Further along the street, religious statues offer silent reminders of the area’s devotional roots. One finds statues dedicated to the Sacred Heart, Our Lady, and other prominent figures within the Catholic faith, adding to the contemplative atmosphere of the street.

Haven House and the Continuation of Care

Among the buildings steeped in religious history, Haven House stands out as a more recent addition. This facility, operated by the Peter McVerry Trust, provides vital support services for those struggling with homelessness and addiction. Its presence highlights the continuation of the area’s long tradition of extending a helping hand to the most vulnerable.

A Street of Contrasts

Morning Star Avenue offers a fascinating blend of past and present. The imposing remnants of 19th-century institutional architecture stand side-by-side with modern facilities dedicated to social causes. While many of the grand buildings have seen repurposing, the underlying themes of charity and faith persist, giving the street a distinct identity.

A Walk Through Time and Purpose

A stroll down Morning Star Avenue invites reflection on Dublin’s evolving social landscape. It’s a reminder that while the institutions and needs of society might change, the core values of compassion and community support remain steadfast, ensuring that this unassuming street continues to shine its light for those in need.

EXPLORING GRANGEGORMAN LOWER WHICH IS BOTH A STREET AND AN AREA OR DISTRICT

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PHOTOGRAPHED USING AN IPHONE 12 PRO MAX

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The Grangegorman Lower district in Dublin, encompassing both a street and a wider neighborhood, boasts a fascinating history that intertwines with the city’s social and institutional evolution. Once primarily a vast mental health asylum, it has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, culminating in the establishment of a vibrant new university campus. However, this redevelopment has not been without controversy, highlighting the ongoing housing crisis in Dublin.

From Asylum to Academia

Grangegorman Lower’s origins lie in the early 19th century when the Richmond Lunatic Asylum was opened in 1814. Designed by renowned architect Francis Johnston, it became a sprawling institution reflecting the then-prevailing attitudes towards mental health. For over a century, Grangegorman served as a primary psychiatric facility in Ireland.

During the 20th century, shifts in mental healthcare led to the gradual closure of large asylums like the Richmond. The institution saw a decline in patient numbers, and by the time of its final closure in 2013, the once-formidable complex had fallen into disrepair.

A Campus is Born

The Grangegorman Development Agency spearheaded a visionary project to breathe new life into the site. One central aspect was the creation of a new campus for Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). Painstaking restoration work transformed the historical Lower House building, preserving its architectural heritage. Now, ultramodern facilities within the East and Central Quad buildings blend seamlessly with this historical backdrop, providing state-of-the-art learning environments.

Housing Crisis Flashpoint

The Grangegorman redevelopment ignited a recent student-led protest highlighting Dublin’s acute housing shortage. Protesters occupied a vacant building on the site, arguing that it should be repurposed for urgently needed student accommodation rather than left empty. This protest brought the stark contrast between Dublin’s redevelopment successes and the ongoing struggle many young people face in finding affordable housing into sharp focus.

Resolution and the Future

The protest eventually ended peacefully. It prompted important dialogue about housing policy, particularly addressing student housing needs. While no immediate resolution emerged, the occupation at Grangegorman underscored the complex interaction between urban development and pressing social issues.

Grangegorman Lower today stands as a testament to both progress and ongoing challenges. The beautiful campus is a symbol of Dublin’s investment in education and its transformation from a city marked by institutionalization. Yet, the student protest serves as a reminder of the housing difficulties faced by many and the need for continued work to find a balance between revitalisation and social equity.

The Evolving Streetscape

Much of the housing along Grangegorman Lower originally comprised small, modest workers’ houses and cottages. These structures reflected the area’s historical role as a working-class neighbourhood on the edge of the city centre. Some larger buildings, serving as staff quarters or for other institutional purposes, were part of the asylum complex.

A key aspect of the Grangegorman redevelopment was the preservation of key historical buildings, like the iconic Lower House. Some structures, with suitable architectural features, have been carefully restored and repurposed for student amenities or university facilities. Much of the demolished housing has been replaced by the modern buildings of the university campus, including academic spaces, research centres, and some student accommodation blocks. Some areas may see future mixed-use developments emerge, including possible additional student housing along with residential and commercial spaces.

Student Accommodation

The Grangegorman area boasts several purpose-built student accommodation complexes, including Ardcairn House directly on Grangegorman Lower and Broadstone Hall in nearby Broadstone. These offer modern, apartment-style living designed to cater to students’ needs. With the ongoing focus on student needs, there’s strong potential for further purpose-built student housing to be developed in the coming years, particularly along Grangegorman Lower itself.

DublinBikes Accessibility

Grangegorman is well served by DublinBikes, with a cluster of three docking stations (103, 104, and 105) located conveniently near the tram stop. These provide students and residents with easy access for connecting with the wider Dublin cycle network. There is also a Docking Station at North Brunswick Street.

Overall, the Grangegorman Lower streetscape reflects a blend of preserved history, modern university buildings, and some recent student accommodation developments. The presence of DublinBikes docking stations highlights a focus on sustainable transport links within this rejuvenated area of Dublin.

Local Residents’ Concerns

The Grangegorman redevelopment, while positively transforming the area, was not without concerns raised by local residents. Some key worries included:

Gentrification: There was fear that revitalisation could lead to rising rents and displacement of the existing working-class community.

Traffic and Congestion: Residents anticipated an increase in traffic and parking pressures with a major university campus coming into the neighbourhood.

Loss of Green Space: Some expressed concern over the potential loss of existing open spaces and the impact on the local environment.

Overshadowing and Privacy: Concerns existed that the scale of new developments might overshadow existing housing and impact residents’ privacy.

Addressing the Concerns

The Grangegorman Development Agency engaged in several measures to address these concerns:

Consultation and Community Liaison: The agency established community liaison groups and forums to facilitate dialogue between residents, developers, and the university.
Traffic Management Plans: Detailed traffic management and sustainable transport plans were developed, including promoting cycling infrastructure like the DublinBikes docking stations.
Affordable Housing: While progress has been slow, the development does include plans to incorporate some affordable housing elements in future phases.
Preservation and Green Spaces: Efforts were made to preserve key historical buildings, and plans incorporate new green spaces within the development.

Ongoing Dialogue

It’s important to note that addressing community concerns within large urban renewal projects is often an ongoing process. While the Grangegorman Development Agency has made efforts to mitigate local residents’ worries, some issues may require continuous monitoring and adjustments as the transformation of the area takes shape.

REDISCOVERING MEETING HOUSE LANE

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AN ALLEYWAY STEEPED IN HISTORY

I have visited this lane a number of times in search of street are and sometimes I was lucky but I did not devote any time to investigating the history of what appeared to be nothing more than a back lane.

Dublin’s Meeting House Lane might seem unassuming at first glance, but this small passageway holds centuries of fascinating stories. It offers a tangible connection to the city’s grand medieval past and to the changing religious landscape of Ireland.

The Rise and Fall of St. Mary’s Abbey

Founded in 1139, St. Mary’s Abbey was a powerful Cistercian monastery, rising to become the wealthiest religious house in Ireland. It was a stage for pivotal moments in Dublin’s history, such as Silken Thomas’s 1534 renunciation of his allegiance to King Henry VIII. Yet, the winds of the Dissolution of the Monasteries swept through Ireland, and St. Mary’s Abbey was forcibly closed in 1539.

A Landscape Transformed

The once-mighty abbey fell into ruin, and its lands were dispersed. Buildings rose and fell over the centuries, and the area’s character shifted. Yet, hidden beneath the layers of time are surviving remnants of the abbey’s Chapter House – a place where monks would gather for daily meetings and important decisions.

The Legacy of the Meeting House

The name “Meeting House Lane” offers a crucial piece of history. On Rocque’s map of Dublin from 1756, a Presbyterian meeting house is visible in this laneway. This reflects the changing religious makeup of the area after the decline of the Catholic abbey.

Preserving the Past

Though Meeting House Lane has seen better days, an enduring sense of history lingers. The Chapter House remains offer a physical link to Dublin’s medieval past. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these fragments, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the rich tapestry of their city.

A Call to Rediscovery

Meeting House Lane might not initially command attention. However, upon closer inspection, it tells a story of Dublin’s evolution – from a Catholic monastic center to a place of Presbyterian worship. These shifts highlight the importance of preserving the stories woven into our urban spaces.

Next time you’re in Dublin, consider taking a detour down Meeting House Lane. Allow yourself to imagine the echoes of the past that still resonate within this unassuming passageway.

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IS IT TRUE THAT A HOTEL IS TO BE BUILT AND THE END OF THE LANE

When I visited Meeting House land I noticed a derelict or semi-derelict warehouse and decided to conduct an online search and I received the following response:

Yes, there are significant redevelopment plans in the works for the area around Meeting House Lane, including the building/warehouse you mention. Here’s what I found:

The Project: The plans involve transforming the site into a 9-story mixed-use development. It will feature a boutique hotel, restaurant spaces, and a rooftop garden.
Developer: Details on the specific developer are often available in redevelopment planning documents or local news sources. A bit of searching with keywords like “Meeting House Lane Dublin redevelopment” could reveal this.
Planning Permission and Status: It seems the project has received planning permission. You can usually find detailed information about such plans and their progress on the Dublin City Council planning website (https://planning.agileapplications.ie/dublincity). Search using the address or “Meeting House Lane.”
Timeline: Depending on the planning permission date, you might find an estimated start date and completion target for the project.

Where to Find Information

Dublin City Council Planning Website: The most reliable source for detailed plans, approval status, and possibly timelines.
Architectural Firms: If the developer has commissioned an architectural firm for the project, their website might have information and visualisations.
Local News Sources: Dublin-based news outlets may have covered the redevelopment plans, especially if there was public discussion or community

A further search eventually found the following information:

22nd of June 2022 – Plans by London architects Studio Anyo for a new €15 million boutique hotel and leisure facility in the heart of Dublin will go ahead after the project got the green light following an appeal.

“The development will be on a site surrounded by a number of significant buildings and property, including nearby offices and shops in The Capel Building, a popular local fruit market, and the former Cistercian St Mary’s Abbey Chapter House.”

“Studio Anyo has created an ambitious, contemporary design that will see a nine-storey mixed development featuring a hotel and restaurant complex with a spacious glazed roof-top eco-garden. The current basement roof will be removed along with the interconnected second storey building to the rear, internal floors and walls to facilitate the core structure of the new-look property

THIS WAS MY FIRST TIME TO VISIT DUNSINEA LANE

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ASHTOWN AREA OF DUBLIN

This was my first time visiting Dunsinea Lane, of which I was unaware until recently. I also didn’t realise it offered a route to Dunsink Observatory, another place I’ve never visited. Being nervous about walking along country lanes without pavements, I only explored a short section.

Getting to Dunsink Observatory and Experiencing the Hamilton Walk

Dunsinea Lane provides a practical and scenic route for those wishing to explore the historic grounds of Dunsink Observatory. This convenient lane offers safe passage for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists, connecting Ashtown Train Station to the grounds of Priorstown House. The Observatory is a short 450-metre walk from there.

The Observatory: Dunsink Observatory, steeped in astronomical history, is a significant landmark along Dunsinea Lane. Established in 1785, it played a pivotal role in scientific research and remains a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the cosmos.

The Hamilton Walk: Dunsinea Lane holds special significance as the starting point for the annual Hamilton Walk. This 30-year tradition commemorates the groundbreaking mathematical discoveries of Sir William Rowan Hamilton. Participants follow the same route Hamilton took, journeying from Dunsink to Broome Bridge on the Royal Canal.

Overall: Dunsinea Lane is more than just a thoroughfare; it’s a pathway to history, science, and a cherished community tradition. Whether you’re visiting the Observatory, participating in the Walk, or simply seeking a scenic route, Dunsinea Lane is a worthwhile destination.

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Sir William Rowan Hamilton

Sir William Rowan Hamilton was a brilliant Irish mathematician, physicist, and astronomer who made groundbreaking contributions to several fields. Here’s a deeper look at some of his most notable mathematical discoveries:

Quaternions: Hamilton’s most famous discovery was quaternions, a revolutionary extension of complex numbers into four dimensions. While pondering how to represent rotations in three-dimensional space using complex numbers, Hamilton had a flash of insight while walking along the Royal Canal. He carved the fundamental formula for quaternion multiplication (i^2 = j^2 = k^2 = ijk = -1) into the stone of Brougham Bridge. Quaternions proved instrumental in fields like computer graphics, navigation, and even the modern understanding of quantum mechanics.

Hamiltonian Mechanics: Hamilton revolutionised the field of classical mechanics. He reformulated Newtonian mechanics into a powerful framework now known as Hamiltonian Mechanics. His approach introduced concepts like the Hamiltonian function, which describes a system’s total energy, and Hamilton’s equations, which elegantly govern the evolution of the system over time. Hamiltonian Mechanics has profound implications in physics, from planetary motion to the behaviour of subatomic particles.

Conical Refraction: Hamilton applied his expertise in optics to theoretically predict a phenomenon known as conical refraction. He deduced that, under specific conditions, a ray of light entering a biaxial crystal would emerge as a hollow cone of light. This prediction was later experimentally verified, solidifying Hamilton’s profound grasp of wave optics.

Calculus of Variations: Hamilton made significant contributions to the calculus of variations, which deals with finding the optimal path or function that minimises or maximises a given quantity. His insights had implications in diverse fields, from engineering to economics.

Sir William Rowan Hamilton’s mathematical legacy continues to inspire and shape areas of physics, mathematics, and engineering even today.

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