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EXPLORING DUBBER CROSS AREA AND NEARBY – THE DAY THAT I GOT LOST

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LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION 2017

Charlestown was the homeland area name and much of the land there was owned by Mr. Melvin, the farmer. The locals that I encountered remembered the area well when it was all fields and distinctly rural.

In May 2017 I decided to get a bus at random and see where it brought me. I ended up at a place known as Dubber Cross near Charlestown Shopping Centre which is very close to the runways at Dublin Airport. You may notice landing jets in some of the images.

Charlestown Shopping Centre located in the northern end of Finglas. It opened in October 2007 and has two of the centre opened in October 2015. The second phase included a nine screen Odeon cinema and a Leisureplex which includes a Bowling alley and Quasar. However, I decided to explore the local area and to some extent got lost as my camera did not have GPS and my iPhoned had shutdown. To the best of my knowledge I photographed parts of Charlestown, Meakstown and Dubber Cross.

For those unfamiliar, townlands are ancient divisions of land, often with fascinating histories. Meakstown and Dubber Cross, nestled in northwest Dublin, are no exception. Meakstown sits east of the busy N2, while Dubber Cross lies just west, across the road. Both areas have witnessed significant changes over the years, evolving from rural landscapes to suburban neighbourhoods.

Dubber is in the Civil Parish of Santry, in the Barony of Coolock, in the County of Dublin. During my visit I meet a mother and her children and she told me that she was there to show the children their new house which was at the end of the lane. According to Google Maps the name of the lane is ‘Dubber Cottages’ but when I checked the sales information for Dubber House it was described as being located at the end of ‘Dubber Lane’. If her new house is Dubber House it is impressive.

Historically, Meakstown was known as “Baile Maidheac” in Irish, possibly meaning “Mac’s town”. Records show the area was once home to a substantial house and demesne lands, hinting at a more affluent past.

I had been lead to believe that Dubber Cross, derived its name from the Irish “Tobar na Croise” (Well of the Cross), a holy well that once existed nearby. However, after further research I believe that this is incorrect as there is a location named Tubber Cross in Ireland and it’s a village located on the border of County Clare and County Galway. Tubber Cross is known for its historical connections, including a holy well and St. Michael’s Church.  

Today, both Meakstown and Dubber Cross are predominantly residential areas. Since my 2017 visit, further development has taken place, with new housing estates and amenities springing up. Despite this modernisation, pockets of green space remain, offering a welcome respite from the urban bustle.

TODAY I WALKED UP INFIRMARY ROAD

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THERE IS MUCH ONGOING REDEVELOPMENT IN THE AREA

[NOTE] In previous posts as well as this post I referred to this street as Infirmary Hill rather than Infirmary Road]

Infirmary Road in Dublin is more than just a street with a steep incline near the Phoenix Park. While the name reflects the common European practice of denoting slopes as “hills,” this particular street holds a fascinating and layered history, intertwined with Ireland’s journey to independence.

Here’s what I know about the two significant sites on Infirmary Road:

The Royal Military Infirmary: This grand edifice, designed by renowned English architect James Gandon, stands proudly on the southeastern edge of Phoenix Park. Built between 1786 and 1788, it originally served as a state-of-the-art hospital for British soldiers stationed in Dublin. Today, this imposing structure, with its distinctive C-shaped footprint and central clock tower, houses the Irish Department of Defence’s Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The former Military Support Complex: Further up Infirmary Road, nestled between Montpelier Hill and Montpelier Gardens, lies a site with a rich military past. While previously believed to be solely a Veterinary Hospital, recent archaeological assessments reveal a more complex picture. This site, dating back to at least the 18th century, served a variety of military functions, including stabling, accommodation, stores, and workshops. It likely played a vital role in supporting the logistical needs of the British Army in Dublin.

Evolution of the Site: The 19th century saw significant development on the site, with new buildings, boundary walls, and laneways added, suggesting an expansion of military activities. It continued to be used for various military purposes throughout the 20th century, adapting to changing needs, before eventually falling into decline.

A Window into the Past: Today, the derelict structures and buried archaeological remains offer a unique opportunity to explore Dublin’s military history. They hold the potential to reveal valuable insights into the daily lives and activities of the soldiers who once occupied this space.

Looking to the Future: Interestingly, the site is now earmarked for a social housing scheme. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity – to balance the needs of the present with the preservation of the past. Careful consideration must be given to ensure the archaeological heritage of the site is protected and integrated into any future development.

The decline of this military complex, along with other British military installations in Dublin, reflects a pivotal moment in Irish history. The War of Independence marked a struggle for self-determination, and the transformation of these sites can be seen as a physical manifestation of Ireland’s journey to independence.

42 FAIRVIEW STRAND – FROM POST OFFICE TO CINEMATHEQUE

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PHOTOGRAPHED OCTOBER 2024

The attractive building at 42 Fairview Strand has an interesting history, reflecting the changing needs of the community it serves. Originally built as a post office, it has been repurposed and will soon become the CoisCéim Cinematheque, a hub for dance on screen.

A Victorian Post Office:

Designed by Robert Cochrane and built by Patrick Sheridan, the building showcases Victorian architectural features. Constructed in the late nineteenth century during Fairview’s development as a desirable suburb for Dublin’s affluent citizens, it was intended to serve as a post office from the outset.

The building’s design is typical of the Victorian era, with a rich blend of materials like stone and ironwork, adding visual interest to the streetscape. The arrangement of windows and buttresses cleverly disguises the building’s size, ensuring it integrates well with its residential surroundings. The retention of original features, such as the early windows, adds to its historical charm.

Changing Roles:

While the exact dates of its operation as a post office remain unclear, the building later served as a hall. This suggests a period of transition when the building adapted to the evolving needs of the community.

More recently the building housed “The Bridal Boutique,” indicating its continued adaptation to commercial uses.

A New Chapter: CoisCéim Cinematheque:

In 2025, 42 Fairview Strand will embark on its newest chapter as the CoisCéim Cinematheque. This exciting project by CoisCéim Dance Theatre will transform the building into a dedicated space for showcasing dance films and virtual reality experiences.

The Cinematheque will offer a curated programme of screenings, featuring works by CoisCéim Dance Theatre and other international dance companies. It aims to provide a unique opportunity for local residents and the wider community to engage with dance in a new and accessible way.

The transformation of this historic building from a post office to a cultural hub reflects the dynamic nature of urban spaces and their ability to adapt to changing times. The CoisCéim Cinematheque promises to be a valuable addition to Fairview and the Dublin arts scene.

THE 9TH LOCK ON THE ROYAL CANAL

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A WALK ALONG THE ROYAL CANAL FROM PELLETSTOWN TO ASHTOWN

I recently walked along the Royal Canal from Pelletstown to Ashtown, hoping to experience the upgraded Royal Canal Greenway. However, as of 12th October 2024, this section has yet to be fully completed. Despite this, the walk was still enjoyable, offering a glimpse of both the area’s history and its ongoing transformation.

The 9th Lock: This historic lock, dating back to the late 18th/early 19th century, is a reminder of the canal’s important role as a transport route. While waiting to see if any boats passed through, I took a moment to appreciate this piece of industrial heritage.

Royal Canal Avenue/Crescent: This area is a testament to the ongoing regeneration efforts along the canal. Numerous new apartments and townhouses have sprung up, creating a vibrant new community. At the Ashtown end, I found a welcoming selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

The Royal Canal Greenway: A Work in Progress

The Royal Canal Greenway is a major project aimed at creating a high-quality off-road route for walking, cycling, and wheeling along the entire length of the canal. The section between Phibsborough and Ashtown (Phase 4) is the final piece of the puzzle within Dublin City Council’s boundary.

To manage this complex undertaking, Phase 4 has been divided into four stages:

Phase 4A (Completed): This involved improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists at Broombridge Road by installing a toucan crossing and ‘shuttle signals’.
Phase 4B (Delayed): This stage focuses on upgrading the existing greenway between Phibsborough and Ashtown, providing segregated cycling and pedestrian paths. However, the project has encountered delays due to an environmental assessment referral. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) is now required to assess the potential impact of widening the canal bank on the surrounding ecosystem and Dublin Bay.
Phase 4C (Pending): This stage will upgrade the railway underpass near Liffey Junction and the 7th Lock, and address any remaining pinch points along the route. Further ground investigations are needed before this work can begin.
Phase 4D (Planning Stage): This involves creating an Active Travel link between Tolka Valley Park and Phoenix Park at Ashtown Gate, enhancing connectivity between these green spaces.
Environmental Concerns and Future Plans

The requirement for a Natura Impact Statement highlights the importance of balancing development with environmental protection. The revised plan for Phase 4B, which involves widening the canal bank at certain locations, has raised concerns about its potential impact on the canal’s ecosystem and the wider Dublin Bay area.

It’s clear that completing the Royal Canal Greenway is a complex process, requiring careful consideration of various factors. However, once finished, it will provide a valuable amenity for Dubliners and visitors alike, offering a safe and enjoyable way to experience the beauty and history of the Royal Canal.

ROYAL CANAL CRESCENT AND CRESCENT PUBLIC PARK

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AT PELLETSTOWN WHICH IS ADJACENT TO RATHBORNE VILLAGE

Pelletstown, a vibrant urban quarter nestled beside the Royal Canal, Rathborne Village, and Tolka Valley Park, offers a modern take on classic Dublin architecture. Royal Canal Crescent, with its distinctive terraced housing and communal green spaces, draws inspiration from the enduring charm of Dublin’s traditional red-brick neighbourhoods.

The Crescent itself is comprised of three terraces of duplexes, framed by apartment buildings at either end. All residences enjoy views overlooking Crescent Park, a welcoming green space that provides a tranquil escape within the urban landscape. Narrow laneways weave between the terraces, leading to a network of home-zones and pocket parks, each bordered by attractive brick-built homes.

The development’s warm and unifying aesthetic is achieved through the use of buff-coloured brick, while white brick and stone accents highlight entrances and key architectural features.

Rathborne Village: A Neighbouring Community

Adjacent to Pelletstown, Rathborne Village is a newer development in Ashtown, Dublin 15. This planned community seamlessly blends residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, fostering a vibrant and sustainable atmosphere.

A variety of apartments and townhouses cater to diverse needs and preferences. Residents benefit from a range of amenities within the village, including a SuperValu supermarket, a pharmacy, a medical centre, and a selection of cafés and restaurants.

Green spaces are interwoven throughout Rathborne Village, and its proximity to the Royal Canal and Ashington Park provides further opportunities to connect with nature.

Excellent transport links, including nearby Ashtown train station, Pelletstown railway station and bus routes, ensure convenient access to Dublin city centre and beyond.

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