A POND FOR RUBBER DUCKS

There has been a transformation of the area at the junction of Ryder's Row and Parnell Street in recent years. The former "bike yard," which occupied the space now home to the green area and pond, a contentious site for many years.

Here's a summary of the history:

The Bike Yard: The bike yard was a sprawling collection of second-hand bicycles, bicycle parts, and repair workshops. While it served a purpose for some, it was widely regarded as an eyesore due to its disorganised appearance and the occasional overflow onto the street.

Dereliction Concerns: The condition of the buildings within the bike yard, particularly after a fire in 2004, raised concerns about dereliction and public safety. Three buildings were demolished at that time due to the risk of collapse.

Dublin City Council Intervention: In 2019, Dublin City Council issued a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for several properties in the area, including those associated with the bike yard.
This legal mechanism allows the council to acquire land or property for redevelopment, even without the owner's consent, if it's deemed in the public interest.

Redevelopment and Transformation: Following the CPO, the bike yard was cleared and the site was redeveloped into the current green space, which is a welcome addition to the area. The pond and rubber ducks are a playful touch that has been well-received by locals and visitors alike.

While the exact details of the forced sale and the compensation provided to the bike yard owners may not be publicly available, it's clear that Dublin City Council played a crucial role in transforming this previously neglected and contentious site into a valued public amenity.