Buildings of Ireland

PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM MURPHY

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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.

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