NEW PUBLIC SPACE

THIS IS A NEW PUBLIC SPACE

ST LUKE'S AVENUE [THE NEW PUBLIC SPACE IN FRONT OF THE OLD CHURCH]


In recent years, Dublin City Council has undertaken a number of improvements to the public realm around the former St. Luke’s Church (Thomas Burgh House). These include the creation of a new public park with new steps and ramp entrances, replacing what was previously a green verge.

History of St. Luke’s Church:

Built between 1715 and 1716.
Situated between The Coombe and Newmarket.
Originally the Parish Church of the St. Nicholas Without and St. Luke’s Parish, now part of the Select Vestry St. Patrick’s Cathedral Group of Parishes.
Closed for public worship in 1975, with the parish now worshipping in St. Catherine and St. James Church, Donore Avenue.
Badly damaged by fire in 1986 and remained unused and in a ruinous condition until 2003.
A protected structure and recorded monument within the Dublin zone of archaeological potential.

Conservation and Restoration Efforts:

A Conservation Plan for St. Luke’s Church was commissioned by Dublin City Council in conjunction with the Heritage Council in 2003.
The plan aimed to address the church’s deteriorating physical condition and ensure its survival.
In 1994, Dublin City Council purchased the site and initiated restoration plans.
The surrounding graveyard has been partially redeveloped into a pocket park.
A tender for the church building’s restoration was awarded in 2006, involving the insertion of a new building into the restored ruins.

Current Status:

The former St. Luke's Church (Thomas Burgh House) is being redeveloped into office spaces.
Significant improvements have been made to the surrounding public realm, including the creation of a new public park and enhancements to Newmarket Street.
A disused drainage chamber at the base of Newmarket Street has been removed and replaced with paving and planted areas.
The stepped entrance into Newmarket Street has been remodelled and widened.

These developments demonstrate a commitment to revitalising the Coombe area and enhancing its public spaces, while preserving its historical significance through the adaptive reuse of the former St. Luke's Church.