PUBLIC TRANSPORT

All Photographs Supplied By William Murphy

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By William Murphy

DUBLINBIKES DOCKING STATION 03 BOLTON STREET DURING A SNOW STORM

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DECEMBER 2010 LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION

Dublinbikes, launched in 2009, was still in its infancy in 2010. The scheme, with its distinctive blue bicycles and prominent docking stations, was designed to provide a public bicycle rental service for residents and visitors to Dublin.

In 2010, Dublinbikes was notable for its lack of a commercial sponsor. This meant the bikes were simply branded with the Dublinbikes logo and the city council’s emblem. This was a conscious decision by Dublin City Council, who wanted to establish the service as a public utility before seeking commercial sponsorship.

The winter of 2010 was particularly harsh in Dublin, with several heavy snowfalls. This was unusual, as snow in Dublin is typically infrequent and doesn’t tend to disrupt daily life significantly. However, 2010 was different. The heavy snow and ice caused widespread disruption to transport and daily life, including the Dublinbikes service. Many docking stations were temporarily closed due to the hazardous conditions, and the use of the bikes was significantly reduced as people opted to stay indoors.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Dublinbikes continued to operate throughout the winter of 2010, providing a valuable service to those who braved the elements. The lack of a commercial sponsor did not hinder the service’s popularity, and it continued to grow in popularity in the years that followed.

CLONTARF GARAGE 2017 LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM MURPHY

  • CLONTARF GARAGE [2017 LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION]-244445-1

Clontarf Garage is more than just a place where buses park overnight. It’s a landmark with a rich history intertwined with the development of public transport in Dublin.

Here’s what I’ve found about Clontarf Garage:

Early beginnings: The garage was originally built as a tram depot in the late 19th century (between 1870 and 1880, according to the Buildings of Ireland records). This was during the era of horse-drawn trams, and the building would have housed and serviced these early forms of public transport.

Electrification and modernisation: With the electrification of the tram lines in the late 1890s and early 1900s, Clontarf Garage would have undergone modifications to accommodate the new electric trams. This likely included the installation of electrical infrastructure, such as the transformer we discussed elsewhere [also featured in one of this set of images].

Transition to buses: As trams gradually gave way to buses in the mid-20th century, the garage transitioned into its current role as a bus depot. It continues to serve as an important hub for Dublin Bus operations today.

Architectural significance: Clontarf Garage is a listed building, recognised for its historical and architectural significance. It stands as a reminder of the evolution of public transport in Dublin and the city’s industrial heritage.

Key features and facts:

Officially named “Dublin Bus Clontarf Garage”
Located at 239-243 Clontarf Road, Dublin 3
Registered with the Buildings of Ireland (Reg No. 50030113)
Serves as a depot for Dublin Bus, housing and maintaining buses
Historically significant as a former tram depot
Beyond the practical: Clontarf Garage is more than just a functional building. It’s a landmark in the local community and a symbol of how transport has shaped the development of Clontarf. It’s also a place where generations of Dublin Bus drivers and staff have worked, contributing to the city’s transport network.

A HISTORIC STATION CONNECTING THE PAST WITH THE PRESENT

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CARLOW TRAIN STATION

Carlow Train Station: A Historic Hub Connecting Past and Present

Carlow Train Station, situated in the heart of Carlow Town, is a vital transport link and a landmark steeped in history. The station first opened its doors in 1846, as part of the Great Southern and Western Railway’s expansion, ushering in an era of improved connectivity for the region.

Over the decades, Carlow Station has witnessed significant transformations. The original station building, a charming example of Victorian architecture, has been lovingly preserved and now houses the station’s ticket office and waiting area. The station’s platforms and facilities have also been modernised to meet the demands of 21st-century travel.

Today, Carlow Station serves as a key stop on the Dublin-Waterford intercity route, connecting the town to major cities and facilitating both commuter and leisure travel. It’s also a popular gateway for exploring the scenic beauty of County Carlow and its surroundings.

The station’s popularity remains strong, with thousands of passengers passing through its doors each year. Its central location, convenient access to local amenities, and regular train services make it an attractive option for both residents and visitors.

Whether you’re embarking on a journey to Dublin, Waterford, or simply exploring the delights of Carlow Town, Carlow Train Station is a welcoming and well-connected transport hub. It stands as a testament to the enduring importance of rail travel in Ireland and the ongoing efforts to enhance passenger experience and connectivity throughout the country.