Infomatique

THE GLASS BOTTLE PROJECT

August 31, 2024 by infomatique

HAS SUFFERED MANY DELAYS AND SETBACKS

Here’s a comprehensive account of the Glass Bottle Company’s history and the subsequent developments:

The Glass Bottle Company & Its Legacy

The Irish Glass Bottle Company, situated in Ringsend, Dublin, once stood as a major industrial player. The company operated for over a century, producing glass bottles for various purposes until its closure in 2002.

Sale of the Site & Controversies

The 2006 sale of the 28-acre site to property developer Bernard McNamara for a record-breaking €412 million marked the beginning of a contentious journey. The property crash that followed soon after brought the initial plans to a halt, leading to NAMA (the National Asset Management Agency) taking control of the site in 2012.

Delayed Development & Obstacles

The redevelopment of the site has faced a series of hurdles, significantly prolonging the construction process. A complex planning process, financial issues, and the need to decontaminate the former industrial land have all contributed to the extensive delays.

Current Status & Affordable Housing Debate

Currently, the site is under development by the Ronan Group Real Estate (RGRE) and Colony Capital. Plans for the “Glass Bottle” project envision a mixed-use development encompassing residential units, offices, retail spaces, and community facilities.

However, the issue of affordable housing has sparked significant controversy. Despite initial promises, critics, including politicians, argue that the prices of the “affordable” units remain out of reach for many. The escalating property prices in Dublin further exacerbate this concern.

Key Points:

The Glass Bottle site represents a significant landmark in Dublin’s industrial history.
The sale and subsequent redevelopment have been fraught with challenges, leading to extensive delays.
The ongoing debate surrounding affordable housing underscores the complexities of urban development in a rapidly changing city.
In conclusion, while the Glass Bottle site holds immense potential for revitalising the area, the project’s legacy will likely be shaped by how it addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in Dublin.

THE CORTEN STEEL SIGN LOOKS LIKE A SHIP PLUS REFURBISHED CRANE

August 31, 2024 by infomatique

DUBLIN PORT COMPANY AUGUST 2024

Architectural Design

Integration of Industrial Aesthetics: The Corten steel sign and the refurbished crane complement the overall architectural design of the Dublin Port Headquarters building, which embraces a modern, industrial aesthetic. The use of raw materials like Corten steel and exposed concrete reflects the port’s functional and utilitarian nature.

Public Realm Enhancement: The placement of these features, along with the maritime-themed garden, creates a welcoming and engaging public space around the building. This approach contributes to the revitalisation of the Dublin Docklands area by making it more accessible and attractive to visitors and residents.

Symbolism and Identity: The ship-shaped sign and the heritage crane serve as visual reminders of Dublin Port’s rich maritime history and its ongoing role in the city’s economy and development. These features help create a sense of place and identity for the Dublin Port Headquarters building.

Sustainability: The use of Corten steel, a weathering steel that develops a protective rust-like patina, minimises maintenance requirements and contributes to the project’s sustainability goals.

Historical Context

Dublin Docklands Regeneration: The development of the Dublin Port Headquarters building is part of a larger urban regeneration initiative aimed at transforming the formerly industrial Dublin Docklands into a vibrant mixed-use district. The preservation and repurposing of heritage elements like the crane acknowledge the area’s industrial past while embracing its future potential.

Maritime Heritage: Dublin Port has played a vital role in the city’s history and development for centuries. The ship-shaped sign and the heritage crane celebrate this maritime heritage and serve as a reminder of the port’s contribution to Dublin’s growth and prosperity.

Industrial Archaeology: The refurbished crane represents a piece of industrial archaeology, preserving a tangible link to the area’s industrial past. Its integration into the new development demonstrates a commitment to preserving and interpreting the Docklands’ rich industrial heritage.

SOUTH HILL IN DARTRY

August 26, 2024 by infomatique

DUBLIN 6 IN AUGUST 2024

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Dartry, Dublin 6, lies a charming enclave known as South Hill. While exploring this tranquil neighbourhood, I was captivated by its unique character and intriguing history.

South Hill isn’t your typical Dublin streetscape with grand Victorian or Edwardian houses. Instead, it’s a thoughtfully planned estate, primarily comprised of semi-detached homes built in the 1950s. The architecture, though not as historic, has a certain mid-century charm, and the mature trees lining the streets create a peaceful, almost suburban atmosphere.

One striking feature of South Hill is its single vehicular entrance. This design choice not only limits through-traffic, preserving the tranquility, but also fosters a strong sense of community. It’s easy to imagine neighbours chatting at their gates or children playing safely in the street.

As I wandered through South Hill, I noticed a distinct lack of “For Sale” signs. It turns out that houses here rarely come on the market, often passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the area’s appeal – the quiet streets, the green spaces, the proximity to excellent schools and the Luas Green Line.

While I couldn’t uncover the exact details of South Hill’s origins during my visit, I learned that at least one house, Drumcar, dates back to 1943. It seems that the bulk of the development took place in the 1950s, a time of significant suburban expansion in Dublin.

South Hill offers a fascinating glimpse into a specific period of Dublin’s architectural and social history. It’s a reminder that hidden gems can be found even in the most well-established neighborhoods. If you’re ever in Dartry, take a detour to South Hill – you might be surprised by what you discover.

FEATURING THE NINE ARCHES AND SHANAGARRY CHIMNEY

August 26, 2024 by infomatique

MILLTOWN ROAD

Milltown: A South Dublin Suburb Steeped in History

Milltown, a suburb and townland nestled on Dublin’s south side, boasts a rich history intertwined with the River Dodder. It was once a bustling hub of industry, its name derived from the numerous mills that harnessed the river’s power. The confluence of the River Slang with the Dodder further adds to the area’s natural charm. Today, Milltown is surrounded by other vibrant suburban areas like Windy Arbour, Ranelagh, Rathmines, Dartry, Clonskeagh, and Donnybrook.

The townland’s origins can be traced back to at least the 14th century, known then as both Milltown and Milton. Following the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland in the 13th century, Milltown and Clonskeagh became liberties of Dublin.

Historian Francis Elrington Ball, in his 1903 work “A History of the County Dublin”, highlights Milltown’s early industrial significance. He notes that “mediaeval quarrying operations carried on at Milltown” supplied stone for repairs to Dublin’s iconic Christ Church Cathedral.

By the 18th century, the area was home to a variety of mills, including two corn mills, an iron mill, and a paper mill. Evidence of this industrial past can still be seen today, such as the remnants of a mill in Dodder Park, once fed by a mill race that branched off the river just upstream from the Nine Arches Viaduct.

The River Dodder itself played a crucial role in Milltown’s development. Historically, it served as a fording point, and a bridge, known as the “(Old) Milltown Bridge” or “Packhorse Bridge,” was constructed in the 17th century. This bridge, now a protected structure, is listed in the Record of Monuments and Places. A newer bridge was later built, and by the early 20th century, the older one was relegated to pedestrian use only.

A striking landmark in Milltown is the 19th-century railway bridge that spans the river. This bridge was part of the Harcourt Street railway line, which connected Harcourt Street to Bray. The bridge, and sometimes the surrounding area, became known as the ‘Nine Arches’. Milltown railway station, opened in 1860, served the community until its closure in 1958. In 2004, the bridge was repurposed for the Luas light rail system, which runs from Broombridge to Bride’s Glen. A Luas stop is conveniently located a short distance north of the former station.

Milltown’s connection to sports and leisure is also noteworthy. The area is associated with Shamrock Rovers football club, who played at Glenmalure Park from 1926 to 1987. Milltown Golf Club, another local institution, celebrated its centenary in 2007.

DARTRY ROAD AND MILLTOWN ROAD

August 25, 2024 by infomatique

BETWEEN RATHMINES AND MILLTOWN

Dartry: A Tapestry of History, Nature, Technology, and Enterprise in Dublin

Nestled between Rathmines and Milltown, Dartry is a charming Dublin suburb where the threads of history, nature, technological advancement, and industrial heritage interweave to create a unique tapestry.

Key Landmarks and Features:

The Dublin Laundry Company

It is hard to believe that in the 1970s, there were more than six hundred battery electric vehicles on the streets of Dublin, with smaller numbers in other cities and towns throughout the country. And one of the users of such transport was Dublin Laundry Company. While often associated with Dartry, the Dublin Laundry Company was technically situated on Milltown Road. However, the proximity and historical context link it closely to the Dartry area and its industrial heritage. The company’s pioneering use of electric vehicles showcases an interesting intersection of industry and early sustainable practices.

Natural Beauty & Green Spaces:

Dartry Road, Temple Road, Orwell Park, and Palmerston Park: Picturesque thoroughfares and verdant spaces offering leisurely strolls and recreation.
The River Dodder: Meandering through the area, providing scenic beauty and a habitat for diverse wildlife.
The “Dartry Park Waterfall” (or weir): A small but charming cascade feature within the Grace O’Donnell Memorial Park section of Dartry Park.
Transport Links:

140 Bus Terminus: Situated beside Palmerston Park for convenient access.
Remnants of Tram Routes: Former termini of the 12 and 14 tramways evoke Dublin’s transport history.
Milltown Luas Stop: Provides modern-day connectivity via the Luas Green Line.
Educational & Cultural Institutions:

Trinity Hall: A vibrant student residence of Trinity College Dublin on Dartry Road.
Trinity College Botanic Garden: A tranquil oasis showcasing a diverse collection of plants, established in Dartry since 1967.
Historical Landmarks & Stories:

The Dropping Well Pub: Beside the River Dodder, this pub stands on the site of a former famine-era morgue, later becoming a popular haunt for “bona fide” travellers.

Dartry House: A two-story mansion once owned by William Martin Murphy, a central figure in the 1913 Dublin Lockout.

The Shanagarry Chimney: A repurposed industrial chimney, once part of the Dublin Laundry Company, now serving as a communications mast and a reminder of the area’s industrial past.

Dartry Mills: Located further upstream along the River Dodder, these former cloth and dye works left their mark on the area’s landscape and history. Remnants of the millrace and water wheel can still be seen.
1928 Killing of Timothy Coughlin: A somber event that took place on Dartry Road, highlighting a chapter of Ireland’s turbulent past.
Literary Connection: 3 Sunbury Gardens was once home to the renowned Irish author Máirtín Ó Cadhain.

Technological Innovation & Enterprise:

Web Summit Headquarters: The company organising the globally recognised Web Summit technology conference is based in Dartry, reflecting the area’s link to innovation and Dublin’s thriving tech scene.
Event Management Hub: Dartry’s strategic location and blend of old-world charm and modernity attract businesses in the event management sector.
Conclusion:

Dartry is more than just a suburb; it’s a microcosm of Dublin’s multifaceted identity. From its serene green spaces and historical landmarks to its connection to technological innovation and enterprise, Dartry encapsulates the essence of a city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.