Glenmaroon House: A Divided Legacy on Knockmaroon Hill

Glenmaroon House, situated on Dublin's Knockmaroon Hill, stands as a testament to both architectural whimsy and the challenges of preservation. The house's unique character stems from its existence on both sides of the road. Historically, this divided residence was connected by both a private, pedestrian bridge and an open walkway of wrought iron reached by a spiral staircase.

A House in Two Parts

• Early Origins: The southern portion of the house, known as Knockmaroon Lodge, dates back to before the 1850s.
• The Guinness Era: In the early 1900s, Arthur Ernest Guinness of brewing fame acquired the property, expanded the estate, and connected it to lands on the Phoenix Park side of the road. The entirety became known as Glenmaroon.
• Changing Purposes: The house served as part of the Holy Angels Convent School and later was associated with St. Louise's Care Centre. Sadly, it now appears derelict.

Connections Across the Divide

The Pedestrian Bridge: A private pedestrian bridge traverses the road and seamlessly links the two sections of Glenmaroon House. This elevated walkway likely provided residents and staff with a convenient and potentially picturesque method of crossing.

The Walkway's Demise: The charming open pedestrian walkway, constructed of wrought iron and reached by a spiral staircase, once offered another unique way to cross the road. Sadly, this feature was recently removed following approval by An Bord Pleanala (the Irish national planning board). This decision came despite a local historical society's appeal.

Community Crossroads

The Glenmaroon House saga highlights the tension between historical preservation and modernization. The removal of the walkway hints at a potential desire within the community to streamline the area. However, the historical society's appeal underscores an equally strong desire to protect local heritage. It is likely opinions remain divided on whether future modifications to the house or the remaining bridge are warranted.

Key Questions for Further Investigation

• Walkway Removal Rationale: What arguments did An Bord Pleanala use to justify the walkway's removal? What were the concerns raised by the historical society?
• Community Sentiment: What is the current range of local opinions on the house, the bridge, and their potential futures?