Infomatique

MY CHRISTMAS 2024 VISIT TO BUSHY PARK

December 21, 2024 by infomatique

19 DECEMBER 2024

Every year I have the opportunity to base myself in Rathgar over Christmas but as the house is to be sold in 2025 this will be the last time which is a pity.

Bushy Park is a large public park located in Terenure, Dublin, Ireland, bordering the River Dodder. Unlike many other urban parks which feature formal gardens, Bushy Park is distinguished by its extensive natural areas, including mature woodlands and a large pond with several smaller ponds that are havens for wildlife. The park provides a welcome escape from the urban environment, offering a more rustic and natural experience.

Key Features and Attractions:

Woodlands: Significant portions of the park are covered in mature woodlands, offering shaded walking trails and a sense of being immersed in nature. These areas are home to a variety of tree species and provide habitats for birds and other wildlife.

Ponds: The large central pond, along with several smaller ponds, is a focal point of the park. These bodies of water attract waterfowl such as ducks, swans, and moorhens, and the surrounding areas offer tranquil spots for relaxation.

River Dodder: The park’s eastern boundary is defined by the River Dodder, adding to the park’s scenic beauty and providing opportunities for riverside walks.

Recreational Facilities: Bushy Park is well-equipped for sports and recreation, with numerous playing pitches for soccer and Gaelic football, tennis courts, a skate park, and two children’s playgrounds.

Walking Trails: A network of paved and unpaved walking trails winds through the park, catering to leisurely strollers and more energetic walkers alike.

New Pedestrian/Cycle Bridge: A recently constructed bridge over the River Dodder enhances connectivity within the park and provides safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists.

Café: A small café offers refreshments.

Cycling in Bushy Park:

Cycling is permitted in Bushy Park, and the paved paths and new bridge provide suitable routes. However, cyclists should be mindful of pedestrians, who have priority. The presence of numerous dogs, often off-leash outside of designated areas, necessitates extra caution.

History:

The land that now comprises Bushy Park was once part of the estates of Terenure and Templeogue. Its development into the park we know today began in the 18th century. Dublin Corporation acquired the park in the mid-20th century, and it has since become a valued recreational space for the local community.

CHURCH LANE AND WOODVIEW COTTAGES AS WELL AS RATHFARNHAM MILL

December 21, 2024 by infomatique

FLOOD RISK

Rathfarnham Village and its Proximity to the River Dodder

This article delves into the history of flooding in Rathfarnham Village, Dublin, specifically examining Church Lane, Woodview Cottages, and Rathfarnham Mill. These residential areas are situated across the River Dodder from Bushy Park and are considered part of Rathfarnham Village.

Flood Risk in Rathfarnham Village

Rathfarnham Village, a historic suburb of Dublin nestled in a valley, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains to the south and the River Dodder to the west. This unique topography creates a potential for flooding from various sources, including overflowing drains and water running downhill. This article delves into the specific flood risks that Rathfarnham Village faces, focusing on these two primary sources and offering insights into how the community can better understand and mitigate these risks.

Risk of Flooding from Overflowing Drains

The area around Church Lane in Rathfarnham Village lies within Flood Zone B, indicating a moderate risk of flooding (1 in 1000 year flood extents) . Overflowing drains can pose a significant flood risk, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. When the drainage system’s capacity is exceeded, excess water can back up and overflow, potentially inundating streets and properties. This can occur due to several factors:

Blocked drains: Debris such as leaves, litter, and sediment can accumulate in drains, obstructing the flow of water and causing blockages.

Inadequate drainage system capacity: Older drainage systems or those not designed to handle increased urbanization and higher runoff volumes may be overwhelmed during heavy rain.

Poor maintenance: Infrequent cleaning and maintenance of drains can exacerbate the risk of blockages and overflows.
A recent study of flood risks in the area associated with the proposed Bus Corridor Scheme indicates a high risk of pluvial flooding (flooding caused by surface water runoff). However, the study suggests that the drainage improvements planned as part of the scheme will help mitigate this risk . This highlights an important point: while Rathfarnham Village faces flood risks, proactive mitigation efforts can effectively reduce these risks.

In 2000, Woodview Cottages in Rathfarnham experienced flooding due to overflowing drains . This incident serves as a reminder of the potential impact of overflowing drains on residential properties in the village. Furthermore, a resident of Woodview Cottages reported difficulty obtaining flood insurance due to the identified flood risks . This underscores the real-world implications of flood risk, potentially affecting property values and insurance availability.

Risk of Flooding from Water Running Downhill

Rathfarnham Village’s location at the base of the Dublin Mountains makes it particularly susceptible to flooding from water running downhill, especially during periods of intense rainfall . The steep slopes of the mountains can channel rainwater rapidly downwards, increasing the risk of flash floods and surface water runoff. Several factors can exacerbate this risk:

Deforestation and urbanisation: Removing vegetation and increasing impermeable surfaces on the slopes reduces the ground’s ability to absorb water, leading to increased runoff.
Soil type: Soil with poor drainage capacity, such as clay soil, can contribute to surface water runoff.

Steepness of slopes: The steeper the slopes, the faster the water flows downhill, increasing the risk of flooding.
To illustrate the potential impact of water running downhill, consider the phenomenon of lahars, which are volcanic mudflows. While Rathfarnham Village is not in a volcanic region, the principle of water carrying debris downhill during heavy rainfall applies . In this case, the steep slopes of the Dublin Mountains could contribute to the rapid accumulation of water and debris, potentially leading to localized flooding.

It’s important to note that the level of flood risk in Rathfarnham can vary significantly depending on the specific location and proximity to the River Dodder . For example, during Hurricane Charlie in 1986 and the October 2011 flooding events, most of the flooding on Dodder Road affected front gardens, with very few houses experiencing significant inundation.

Climate Change and Flood Risk

Climate change is expected to increase the risk of flooding in many areas, including Rathfarnham Village . More frequent and intense rainfall events, as predicted by climate models, can overwhelm drainage systems and increase surface water runoff. Additionally, rising sea levels can exacerbate flooding in coastal areas and those near rivers with tidal influences.

A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) for Dublin City notes that climate change is likely to increase flood risk, particularly along the coast and tidally dominant river reaches . While Rathfarnham Village is not directly on the coast, it is located near the River Dodder, a tributary of the River Liffey, and could be indirectly affected by rising sea levels and increased river flows.

Historical records provide evidence of the impact of extreme weather events on flooding in the Dublin area. In 1965, overflowing rivers, including the Dodder, Dargle, and Tolka, caused significant flooding in Rathfarnham and other parts of Dublin . Similarly, during Hurricane Charlie in 1986, overflowing drains and small rivers caused widespread flooding in Dublin, highlighting the vulnerability of the city to intense rainfall events .

Types of Flooding
Understanding the different types of flooding can help residents and property owners better assess their risk and take appropriate preventative measures. Here are some common types of flooding relevant to Rathfarnham Village:

Fluvial flooding: Flooding from rivers or streams overflowing their banks. The River Dodder, which flows through Rathfarnham, has a history of flooding, as seen in the 1965 event .
Pluvial flooding: Flooding from surface water runoff, often caused by heavy rainfall exceeding the capacity of drainage systems. This is a significant concern in Rathfarnham, as highlighted in the flood risk assessment for the Bus Corridor Scheme .
Groundwater flooding: Flooding that occurs when the water table rises above ground level. This can be a concern in areas with certain soil types or poor drainage.
Coastal flooding: While Rathfarnham is not directly on the coast, rising sea levels due to climate change could indirectly affect water levels in the River Dodder, potentially increasing the risk of flooding in areas close to the river.

Signs that a Property is at Risk of Flooding

Several signs can indicate that a property in Rathfarnham Village is at risk of flooding:

History of flooding: If the property or surrounding area has experienced flooding in the past, it is more likely to flood again. For example, Woodview Cottages have a history of flooding .
Proximity to water bodies: Properties located near the River Dodder or its tributaries are at higher risk of flooding.
Low-lying areas: Properties in low-lying areas or depressions are more susceptible to flooding, especially from surface water runoff.
Poor drainage: Inadequate drainage systems or signs of waterlogging can indicate a higher flood risk.

Property owners in Rathfarnham Village can take several steps to mitigate the risk of flooding:

Maintain drains – Regularly clean gutters, downpipes, and drains to prevent blockages.
Install flood barriers – Flood barriers can help prevent water from entering a property.
Improve drainage – Install or upgrade drainage systems to handle increased runoff.
Elevate electrical appliances – Raise electrical appliances and wiring above potential flood levels.
Relocate valuables – Store valuable items in a safe place above potential flood levels.
Purchase flood insurance – Flood insurance can provide financial protection in the event of flooding.

Conclusion
Rathfarnham Village faces potential flood risks from overflowing drains and water running downhill, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change is likely to exacerbate these risks by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. The impact of flood risk extends beyond property damage, potentially affecting property values and insurance availability, as seen in the case of Woodview Cottages .

It is crucial for the Rathfarnham Village community to be aware of these risks and take proactive steps to mitigate them. This includes individual actions such as maintaining drains and installing flood barriers, as well as community-level initiatives to improve drainage infrastructure and raise awareness. Collaboration between residents and local authorities is essential to effectively address the flood risk and protect the village from future flooding events.

Further research and investigation could provide a more detailed understanding of the specific flood risks in different areas of Rathfarnham Village. This could involve detailed flood modeling, mapping of vulnerable areas, and community-based risk assessments. By working together, the community can build resilience and ensure the long-term safety and well-being of Rathfarnham Village.

I LIKE THE OLD BANDSTAND

December 21, 2024 by infomatique

BUSHY PARK DECEMBER 2024

The Bushy Park Bandstand: A History of Neglect and Renewal

Bushy Park, a beloved green space nestled in the heart of Terenure, Dublin, is home to a variety of attractions, including playing fields, walking trails, a picturesque duck pond, a children’s playground, an extensive wooded area with walks to the banks of the River Dodder, a woodland pond, and a recently reopened kiosk. Yet, amidst this vibrant landscape, an air of melancholy surrounds the old bandstand. Situated in an idyllic location near the duck pond, the bandstand has fallen into a state of dereliction, its once-proud structure now bearing the scars of time and neglect. This article delves into the history of the Bushy Park bandstand, exploring its origins, the reasons behind its decline, and the plans for its future.

A Bandstand in Bushy Park

Before becoming the public park we know today, the land that now constitutes Bushy Park was part of a larger estate surrounding Bushy Park House. Built in the early eighteenth century, the house was home to several notable figures, including Sir Robert Shaw, a successful financier and politician. Shaw inherited the house through his wife, Maria Wilkinson, and during their time, the estate encompassed a vast area stretching from Rathfarnham to Crumlin. The house eventually passed down through the Shaw family to its final private owner, Mrs Frances Shaw, the grandmother of the renowned Irish playwright and polemicist George Bernard Shaw.

In May 1960, the park officially opened to the public, marking a new chapter in its history. Designed to provide a variety of amenities for the community, the park included two pavilions, 16 hard courts, pitches for Gaelic football, football, and hockey, and, of course, the bandstand. It is believed that the bandstand was likely constructed around the same time as the park’s official opening. Built with masonry and painted in a deep green hue, the bandstand boasts a distinctive fan-shaped design that opens out at the base of a slope, creating a natural amphitheatre. This unique setting, with its gentle slopes and surrounding greenery, provided an ideal venue for musical performances and community gatherings, which was indeed its original purpose.

A Period of Decline
Over the years, the bandstand has gradually fallen into disrepair. Despite its aesthetic appeal and attractive location, it has remained largely unused, its stage silent and its seating empty. A number of factors have contributed to this decline. While specific records or reports detailing the reasons for the bandstand’s neglect are unavailable, several contributing factors can be identified.

Lack of Maintenance

The bandstand’s structure shows signs of deterioration, with peeling paint, weathered surfaces, and an overall air of neglect. This lack of upkeep has likely discouraged its use and contributed to its decline.

Changing Entertainment Landscape

In the past, bandstands served as popular venues for community events and musical performances. However, with the rise of alternative entertainment options and the increasing availability of portable sound systems, the demand for traditional bandstands has diminished.

Secluded Location

The bandstand’s location, while aesthetically pleasing, may have also contributed to its underutilisation. Situated in a relatively secluded area of the park, it may not have been easily accessible or visible to all park visitors. This lack of prominence could have further contributed to its decline.

The bandstand’s decline reflects a broader shift away from traditional community spaces and towards more individualised forms of entertainment, a trend observed in many parks and public spaces.

A New Chapter: Renovation and Renewal

Despite its years of neglect, the Bushy Park bandstand is not forgotten. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in its potential, with plans for its renovation and revitalisation taking shape.

In 2019, a striking anamorphic mural was painted on the bandstand by the Dublin art group Subset. This vibrant artwork, titled “Please Stand By”, was inspired by the bandstand’s long period of disuse and aimed to breathe new life into the neglected structure. The mural, which creates a three-dimensional illusion when viewed from a specific angle, has become a popular attraction in the park, drawing attention to the bandstand and its potential. More than just a visual enhancement, the “Please Stand By” mural symbolises the community’s desire to re-engage with this forgotten space and reclaim it as a hub for creativity and expression. It serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for art to revitalise neglected spaces and inspire community engagement.

Beyond the artistic intervention, there are more substantial plans for the bandstand’s future. Guided by the 2008 landscape masterplan for Bushy Park, Dublin City Council has commissioned Howley Hayes Architects to develop a design for the renovation of the bandstand. The project, which is being developed in the context of the park’s Landscape Masterplan and Management & Development Plan, aims to create a vibrant civic space for the park.

The proposed renovation includes the removal of the existing roof, columns, and rear wall, and the addition of a new roof, backstage area, accessible ramp, lighting, and an enhanced stage element. The refurbishment will use a similar palette of materials to the proposed new tearoom, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.

These plans signal a new chapter for the Bushy Park bandstand. The renovation project, combined with the artistic intervention of the “Please Stand By” mural, promises to transform the derelict structure into a vibrant community space, once again fulfilling its original purpose as a venue for events and gatherings.

Stories, Events, and News Reports

While the bandstand itself may not have been the subject of extensive news coverage or local anecdotes, its story is intertwined with the history and development of Bushy Park. The park, with its rich past and diverse amenities, has been featured in various newspaper articles and reports.

One notable news story highlighted the creation of the “Please Stand By” mural, showcasing the artistic transformation of the bandstand and its potential as a canvas for creative expression. Another article explored the history of Bushy Park, mentioning the bandstand as one of its key features and highlighting its aesthetic appeal within the park’s landscape. This article also mentions a curious feature near the bandstand known as the “Shell House”. This small, ruined structure is decorated inside with shells, mainly cockle shells, collected from various Dublin beaches. Although much of the plaster has fallen away, along with many of the shells, it remains an interesting testament to the park’s history and the creativity of its past inhabitants.

While specific stories or anecdotes about the bandstand may be limited, its presence in the park has undoubtedly contributed to the memories and experiences of countless visitors over the years. Whether serving as a backdrop for leisurely walks, a meeting point for friends, or a source of curiosity for those intrigued by its history, the bandstand has played a silent yet significant role in the life of Bushy Park.

Conclusion

The Bushy Park bandstand stands as a testament to the changing times and the evolving needs of a community. Once a symbol of community spirit and entertainment, it fell into neglect, its potential obscured by years of disuse. However, with the recent artistic intervention and the planned renovation project, the bandstand is poised for a revival. Its transformation promises to bring new life to this forgotten corner of Bushy Park, creating a space for community engagement, artistic expression, and the enjoyment of the park’s natural beauty.

The bandstand’s story is a reminder that even in the face of decline, there is always hope for renewal. With careful planning, community involvement, and a touch of creativity, neglected spaces can be transformed into vibrant assets, enriching the lives of those who use them. The bandstand’s journey reflects broader themes of community development, historical preservation, and the importance of public spaces in fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. Its revitalisation will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Bushy Park but also contribute to the well-being and social fabric of the surrounding community.

WHAT A SHAME – THE RATHFARNHAM VILLAGE POST OFFICE HAS BEEN SOLD

December 21, 2024 by infomatique

20 DECEMBER 2024

I first photographed this attractive post office at Christmas in 2021. This time I had difficulty photographing the building because of some rather aggressive drivers who were blocked by a parked van.

The Rathfarnham Post Office: A History and Closure

Rathfarnham village, a charming suburb of Dublin, is known for its historic buildings and picturesque setting. Located within the historical baronies of Rathdown and Uppercross, the village has a rich past intertwined with the development of postal services in the area. Among its notable structures, the post office, with its attractive façade and prominent location on Main Street, has long been a focal point for the community. However, recent visitors to the village may have noticed a change – the post office has ceased trading, and an auctioneer’s ‘sale agreed’ sign now hangs outside. This article delves into the history of this local landmark and explores the reasons behind its closure.

Early Postal Services in Rathfarnham

While pinpointing the exact establishment date of a dedicated post office building in Rathfarnham is challenging with the available historical records, evidence suggests that postal services were operating in the village as far back as the 18th century. Documents from this period reveal the existence of a ‘Two Penny Post’ system in Dublin, with receiving offices established in various surrounding areas, including Rathfarnham . This system, which operated within a four-mile radius of the city, indicates that Rathfarnham was already integrated into the postal network of the time.

By the 19th century, Rathfarnham, situated in the postal districts of Dublin 14 and 16 , was on the periphery of “the Pale”, the area around Dublin under Anglo-Norman control. As a key route for mail coaches travelling to and from Dublin, the village likely had a designated post office to handle mail and deliveries. This is supported by the presence of a “Dublin Milestone” on the Ballyboden Road in Rathfarnham, used to calculate postage distances . These milestones highlight the significance of Rathfarnham in the postal network of the time.

Over the years, Rathfarnham has grown and evolved, with its Main Street becoming a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, pubs, and businesses . Located approximately 6.8km south of Dublin City and 4km northwest of Dundrum , or roughly 7km south of Dublin City Centre , the village enjoys a strategic position within the greater Dublin area. The post office, situated on this vibrant Main Street, played a vital role in connecting the community to the wider world. The building itself has a long history, having traded as the local post office for just over 90 years until its closure in 2023 .

Reasons for Closure

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office can be primarily attributed to the unfortunate passing of the long-serving postmaster, Donal Bermingham . Following his death, An Post, the Irish postal service, made extensive efforts to find a new operator for the post office. They advertised the contract on three separate occasions , but no suitable candidates emerged. An Post also engaged with the Bermingham family, who owned the property, but they ultimately decided not to continue the business . This left An Post with no alternative but to close the office in 2023 and transfer customers to the Nutgrove post office .

While the Rathfarnham closure stems from this specific circumstance, it also reflects a broader trend of post office closures in Ireland. An Post is actively seeking to secure long-term financial sustainability, and closures are part of this strategy . This raises questions about the balance between financial considerations and the needs of local communities. Interestingly, the closure comes at a time when An Post appears to be in a strong financial position. In the first half of 2024, parcel growth reached 18%, with parcels for Irish companies now on par with Amazon . Furthermore, An Post has repaid a €30m government loan, reducing its overall debt from €82m to €39m . This apparent contradiction between financial health and local closures has led many to question the logic of shutting down community post offices .

Community Impact and Future of the Building

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office has undoubtedly had an impact on the local community. Residents now face the inconvenience of travelling to the nearest post office in Nutgrove Shopping Centre, approximately 1.7km away . This is particularly challenging for elderly residents or those without personal transport, as it limits their access to essential services . While there are three post offices based in Rathfarnham – Ballyroan, Nutgrove Shopping Centre, and the now-closed Rathfarnham Village branch – the loss of the village post office is still felt by many.

Local TD John Lahart has been actively involved in addressing the concerns of his constituents. He contacted both the CEO and Deputy CEO of An Post to highlight the significance of losing another post office in the constituency, particularly as Templeogue had also recently experienced a loss of postal services . He emphasised the importance of maintaining accessible postal services for the community .

The building itself has been sold, with a guide price of €510,000 . The new owners’ plans for its future use remain unclear. However, given its prime location on Main Street, which is well-served by public transport with numerous Dublin Bus routes and easily accessible from the M50 motorway , it is likely to be redeveloped for commercial purposes . It currently houses a Montessori and a Physiotherapy Clinic , but its long-term future remains to be seen.

Conclusion

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office represents a loss for the village. For over 90 years, it served as a vital community hub, connecting residents to each other and the wider world. Its closure, while primarily driven by the unfortunate passing of the postmaster, also highlights the challenges faced by post offices in adapting to the modern era. The fact that An Post is closing local branches despite its apparent financial health raises questions about its commitment to community services. The impact of the closure is particularly significant for those who rely on the post office for essential services and have limited mobility. While the future of the building remains uncertain, its history as a community landmark will endure.

THE CLOCKTOWER BUILDING LOWER GRANGEGORMAN

December 20, 2024 by infomatique

20 DECEMBER 2024

The Clocktower Building: A Sentinel of Time in Lower Grangegorman

The Clocktower Building, an enduring landmark in Dublin’s Lower Grangegorman, stands as a testament to the area’s rich and complex history. Originally constructed in 1816 as the Richmond Penitentiary, this iconic structure has witnessed a multitude of transformations throughout its lifetime, serving as a prison, a hospital, and an asylum. This article delves into the fascinating history of the Clocktower Building, exploring its architectural significance, its evolving role within the community, and the stories that have unfolded within its walls.

A Legacy Etched in Stone

Designed by renowned architect Francis Johnston, also known for his work on the General Post Office (GPO) on O’Connell Street and the Lower House in Grangegorman, the Clocktower Building embodies the architectural style prevalent in early 19th-century Ireland. The Lower House, constructed in 1814, served as the Richmond Lunatic Asylum and shares a similar architectural style with the Clocktower Building. The Clocktower Building’s most striking feature is its four-sided clock, the oldest flatbed mechanical clock in Britain and Ireland, which continues to chime hourly to this day. The front facade, overlooking Grangegorman Lower, and the western side of the site are all that remain of the original structure.

From Penitentiary to Pandemic Ward: A Multifaceted History

The Clocktower Building’s history began in 1816 when it was constructed as the Richmond Penitentiary. However, a fever epidemic that year led to its immediate repurposing as a Fever Hospital. It wasn’t until 1820 that the building finally housed prisoners. Despite its intended purpose, the Richmond Penitentiary did not fully live up to its name. Overcrowding prevented the implementation of the “separate system,” a key element of penitentiary design that aimed to isolate prisoners in individual cells.

Controversy soon engulfed the penitentiary. Tensions arose between Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland chaplains, with accusations of proselytising and mistreatment of inmates. An inquiry followed, leading to the closure of the Richmond Penitentiary in 1831. This period has been described as “an experiment that failed.”

From 1832 to 1834, the building served as a Cholera Hospital during a time of widespread outbreaks in Dublin. In 1836, it reopened as the Grangegorman Female Penitentiary, the first exclusively female penitentiary in the UK and Ireland. This model prison was founded on principles of moral reform advanced by philanthropists John Howard and later the Quaker prison reformer Elizabeth Fry. The penitentiary also served as a transportation depot, holding women and girls for up to three months before their transportation to Tasmania until 1858. In 1874, due to overcrowding elsewhere, the north wing began housing male prisoners again.

Echoes of the Past: Stories Within the Walls

The Clocktower Building’s history is intertwined with the broader story of Grangegorman, a neighbourhood with a long and complex past as an institutional quarter. The site has housed a workhouse, a hospital, and a prison, reflecting the social and economic challenges faced by Dublin throughout the centuries. The Clocktower Building has borne witness to countless individual stories, some tragic, others hopeful. During its time as a female penitentiary and transportation depot, many women and girls were incarcerated for crimes ranging from petty theft to infanticide, drunkenness, larceny, and “disturbing the peace.” One particularly poignant case is that of Elizabeth Markey, a 17-year-old girl who was committed to the penitentiary for being “destitute” and died on the same day. These stories offer a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by women in 19th-century Ireland, a period marked by poverty, famine, and emigration. These broader historical events likely had a profound impact on the lives of those who found themselves within the walls of the Clocktower Building.

The building’s association with the Richmond Lunatic Asylum, later known as St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital, adds another layer to its complex history. The asylum, which opened in 1814, was one of the first public psychiatric hospitals in the country, offering a more humane approach to mental health care than was previously available. It championed the “moral management” of patients, which involved proper diet, exercise, social interaction, and “occupation” or work. However, the asylum also had its challenges, with patients often subjected to overcrowding and limited resources. At its peak, the asylum housed 2,375 inpatients in 1896, a number that gradually declined over the years.

In 2014, the “Personal Effects” exhibition was held in the Long Stores behind the Clocktower Building. This exhibition showcased personal belongings found in the old asylum, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of the patients who resided there. Items included birth certificates, travel visas, letters, photographs, cutlery, combs, and diaries, each holding a story and a connection to the past.

A New Chapter: The Clocktower Building Today

In the late 20th century, the Clocktower Building fell into a state of disrepair. However, recent years have seen a renewed effort to preserve and repurpose this historic structure. In 2014, stabilisation works and partial refurbishment were carried out to prevent further deterioration and bring the building back into use. The refurbished sections now serve as administration offices for Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), including the office of TU Dublin’s president.

The Clocktower Building occupies a total area of 3650m2. As of October 2021, 1750m2 were occupied, while 1900m2 remained unoccupied. Key adjacencies to the building include the future Workday site and Broadstone Gate to the east, the East Quad to the south, and An Croí to the west. The East Quad site, located to the east of Grangegorman Lower and immediately south of the Clocktower Building, presented archaeological risks due to the potential for subsurface remains associated with demolished wings of the Richmond Penitentiary and ancillary structures.

In 2016, further works were carried out under the supervision of the Dublin City Council (DCC) Architects Department. These included re-pointing lime mortar, installing ramps, steps, and doors, as well as additional service-related works. In 2023, a grant under the Historical Structures Fund was secured for the refurbishment of 29 windows and 3 doors on the engineering block.

The Grangegorman Masterplan envisions the Clocktower Building as a key component of the new TU Dublin campus, providing academic space for the College of Engineering & Built Environment. A green area, the Cultural Garden, has been created opposite the building, offering a space for reflection and commemoration.

The Clocktower Building is not the only structure undergoing transformation in Grangegorman. The development of the TU Dublin campus has seen the completion of several projects, including the East Quad, which opened in late 2020, and the Central Quad, which is currently accommodating staff from various locations across the city. Three existing buildings – Lower House, Rathdown House, and Park House – have also been significantly upgraded and refurbished. In 2015, the Greenway Hub, providing research laboratories and start-up business spaces, was completed, along with four sports pitches for university use. The Phoenix Centre, a state-of-the-art HSE mental health facility, replaced the old psychiatric hospital in 2014, ensuring the continuation of mental health services in the area.

Grangegorman Histories Project

The Grangegorman Histories project is an initiative dedicated to uncovering and documenting the history of the Grangegorman site and its surrounding communities. This project aims to shed light on the site’s complex past, which includes its time as a workhouse, a hospital, and a prison. Through a diverse programme of events, publications, and learning opportunities, Grangegorman Histories provides valuable resources and insights into the lives of those who lived and worked in Grangegorman. The project has undertaken a comprehensive review of all published and unpublished material relating to Grangegorman since 1770, creating a rich repository of historical information.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Resilience and Renewal

The Clocktower Building stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal in Lower Grangegorman. Its journey from penitentiary to pandemic ward to academic building reflects the changing needs and priorities of the community it serves. The building’s varied uses also mirror evolving social attitudes towards crime and punishment, public health, and mental illness. Its initial role as a penitentiary, with its focus on moral reform, reflects the social anxieties of the time and the belief in rehabilitation through isolation and discipline. Its subsequent use as a hospital during various epidemics highlights the challenges of public health in a rapidly growing city. Finally, its association with the Richmond Lunatic Asylum and the later provision of mental health services in the area speaks to the evolving understanding and treatment of mental illness.

The Clocktower Building’s architectural significance lies not only in its design by renowned architect Francis Johnston but also in its enduring presence as a landmark in Lower Grangegorman. The building has witnessed significant historical events and social changes, and its story is deeply intertwined with the history of Dublin itself. As TU Dublin continues to develop its Grangegorman campus, the Clocktower Building will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of this historic neighbourhood, serving as a reminder of its past while contributing to its vibrant present and future.

Timeline of the Clocktower Building

Year Event/Use
1814 Construction of the Clocktower Building and the Lower House (Richmond Lunatic Asylum)
1816 Initially used as a Fever Hospital due to an epidemic
1820 Opens as the Richmond Penitentiary
1831 Closes as a penitentiary after an inquiry into inmate mistreatment
1832-1834 Used as a Cholera Hospital
1836 Reopens as the Grangegorman Female Penitentiary
1836-1858 Serves as a transportation depot for women and girls sent to Tasmania
1874 North wing begins housing male prisoners due to overcrowding
1896 Peak patient population of 2,375 at the Richmond District Asylum
Late 20th century Building falls into disrepair
2014 Stabilisation works and partial refurbishment; “Personal Effects” exhibition held
2016 DCC works carried out, including re-pointing lime mortar and installing ramps
2020 East Quad opens on the TU Dublin campus
2023 Grant secured for window refurbishment
Present Serves as administration offices for TU Dublin; planned for future academic use