STILLORGAN BOWLING ALLEY

HERE ONCE WAS THE FIRST BOWLING ALLEY IN IRELAND

I lived on Woodlands Drive in Stillorgan and the 1960s was an amazing time as we had the first Bowling Alley in Ireland as well as the first Shopping Centre. The Shopping Centre survived but the Bowling Alley is gone.

The Stillorgan Bowling Alley, once a beloved leisure hub for families and friends in South Dublin, has sadly rolled its last ball. Established in 1961, it was a cornerstone of the community, hosting leagues, birthday parties, and countless fun-filled evenings for over five decades.

The alley underwent renovations and expansions over the years, adapting to the times and remaining a popular destination. However, changing trends and increasing property values in the area eventually led to its closure in 2016.  

The Stillorgan Bowling Alley, once a beloved leisure hub for families and friends in South Dublin, has sadly rolled its last ball. Established in 1961, it was a cornerstone of the community, hosting leagues, birthday parties, and countless fun-filled evenings for over five decades.

The alley underwent renovations and expansions over the years, adapting to the times and remaining a popular destination. However, changing trends and increasing property values in the area eventually led to its closure in 2016.

In its place, a significant redevelopment project has transformed the site. The once-familiar bowling alley building is now replaced by a modern apartment complex known as "The Cornerstone". This eight-story development comprises 232 apartments, offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units.

The transformation of the Stillorgan Bowling Alley site signifies the changing landscape of the area. While some lament the loss of a cherished recreational space, the development addresses the growing demand for housing in Dublin, especially given its prime location near the Stillorgan Shopping Centre and other amenities.


The transformation of the Stillorgan Bowling Alley site signifies the changing landscape of the area. While some lament the loss of a cherished recreational space, the development addresses the growing demand for housing in Dublin. The Lenox, with its proximity to amenities and transport links, provides a new residential option in a sought-after location.

Local Objections & Height Restrictions:

Objections: There were local objections to the development of "The Lenox" on the site of the former Stillorgan Bowling Alley. Concerns primarily revolved around the scale and height of the proposed building, its potential impact on traffic and parking, and the loss of a community space.

Height Restrictions: While there are height restrictions in certain areas of Dublin, including Stillorgan, the permitted height can vary depending on specific zoning regulations and the context of the development. In this case, the eight-story height of "The Lenox" was likely within the allowable limits for that particular site, though it may have pushed the boundaries of what residents were accustomed to.