Public Spaces Archives - EXCELLENT STREET IMAGES

ALMOST TOTALLY DEMOLISHED 15 NOVEMBER 2024

I last addressed this subject in March 2024 but today I was surprised that all blocks have been demolished (more or less) because I had believed that the block on Upper Dominick Street was to be renovated rather than replaced.

Dorset Street Flats Redevelopment: A New Chapter Begins

The Dorset Street and St Mary’s Place flats complex in Dublin’s north inner city is undergoing a significant transformation. After years of planning and preparation, the demolition of the existing 1960s-era flats is now complete, making way for a modern and vibrant community.

Project Goals:

This redevelopment project aims to:

Provide 163 new homes: A mix of houses, duplexes, and apartments to meet the diverse housing needs of the community.
Improve the urban environment: Create a safer, more inclusive, and attractive space with high-quality public areas, landscaped streets, and play spaces.
Enhance community well-being: Incorporate community facilities, a crèche, a commercial unit, and a cafe to foster social interaction and support local residents.

Timeline:

Demolition: Completed as of November 2024.
Construction Start: Expected to commence shortly.
Estimated Completion: Q4 2026.
Key Project Features:

Two enclosed courtyards: A modern design approach to promote safety and community interaction.
Mix of housing types and sizes: Caters to a variety of households.
Sustainable design: Incorporates energy-efficient measures to reduce environmental impact.

Challenges and Considerations:

The project has faced challenges, including:

Relocating existing residents: Ensuring that all residents were provided with suitable alternative accommodation before demolition.
Addressing anti-social behaviour: The site experienced anti-social behaviour during the de-tenanting process, highlighting the need for ongoing community support and safety measures.

Meeting sustainability targets: Balancing the need for new housing with EU directives on whole-life carbon emissions in construction.
Looking Ahead:

The Dorset Street Flats redevelopment represents a significant investment in Dublin’s north inner city. By replacing outdated and problematic housing with a modern, well-designed community, this project promises to improve the lives of residents and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the area.

ON ROUTE TO THE FURRY GLEN

VISIT THE FURRY GLEN

A Woodland Path

Lower Glen Road is a haven within Dublin’s beloved Phoenix Park. Unlike the grand boulevards that crisscross the park, this road is more intimate, a narrow ribbon of pavement winding under a dense canopy of trees. It’s a place for gentle strolls, cyclists enjoying a shaded ride, and the rhythmic sound of horses’ hooves from nearby stables.

A Glimpse of History

Along Lower Glen Road, you’ll encounter reminders of the past. Charming old gate lodges stand sentinel. One, the Knockmaroon Gate Lodge, dates back to the 1830s. Its classic design is a subtle yet enduring landmark.

Whispers of Nature

The road’s defining feature is the lush greenery that surrounds it. The glen itself dips gently, forming a natural bowl cloaked in vibrant foliage. The air feels fresher here, alive with birdsong and the rustling melody of the trees. The Glen Pond gleams through the leaves, a serene picture of quiet beauty.

A Sense of Escape

While only a short distance from the city centre, Lower Glen Road feels worlds removed. It’s a place to slow down, to unplug, and simply breathe in the symphony of nature. Walking here, you feel less like a city dweller and more like a wanderer in a secret, verdant world.

Tips for your Exploration

Timing: Go early to beat any crowds and enjoy the ethereal morning light filtering through the trees.
Footwear: The road can get muddy, so plan your shoes accordingly.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer, sometimes venturing close to the road, and listen for the distinctive call of woodpeckers.
Extend Your Walk: Lower Glen Road connects to other scenic routes in the park, so you can easily create your own longer adventure.
Let Lower Glen Road enchant you with its blend of natural splendour and understated historical charm!