In a recent discussion, the necessity for children to have designated play areas has been brought to light by Olympic champion Kellie Harrington and football star Troy Parrott. Their advocacy comes as the Dublin City Council moves forward with plans to construct a 49-unit housing development on a small patch known as the Strand, located near the Five Lamps in Dublin 1. While the city indeed requires more housing, it simultaneously lacks essential amenities for its younger population.
The campaign to preserve the Strand reflects a broader concern within the city. Residents are faced with the challenge of balancing housing needs against the preservation of community spaces that are vital for children”s activities. The question arises: why can”t both housing and recreational areas coexist? Given the acute shortage of homes, housing developments often take precedence, yet communities should not have to sacrifice spaces that are important for their well-being, especially when existing facilities are already limited.
Another similar situation is unfolding at Mountjoy Square, where plans to restore the historic Georgian square are underway. While the restoration aims to return the area to its original aesthetic, it also threatens to eliminate a sports area and a community center. Previously, proposals included the addition of a playing pitch, which raises the question of whether such amenities are appropriate for the square. Regardless, the neighborhood still requires accessible play and sports areas for its youth.
Although the council has indicated that the new housing development will feature a multi-use community facility, this does not equate to the availability of play areas that children can utilize regularly. The clear solution is that any play or sports area designated for removal due to development should be replaced with a new one in the vicinity before construction begins. Local advocates like Harrington and Parrott express embarrassment that they must rally for the preservation of such a small yet significant space for children”s play.
In stark contrast, the government has allocated substantial funds for events like an NFL match, costing €10 million, and has earmarked €58 million of taxpayer money for a golf tournament in Limerick. This raises a critical question: what about the grassroots amenities that serve the local population rather than just tourists? What long-term benefits do these grand sporting events offer to the children of Dublin or Limerick?
The vibrant community of Dublin 1 has historically produced remarkable talents across various fields, including soccer, GAA, music, and the arts. Conversations with locals reveal that many young individuals excel because they are deeply connected to their community. However, there is a pressing concern for younger generations who, lacking constructive outlets, may fall into detrimental lifestyles.
The absence of public pitches in the city center, particularly between the Grand Canal and the North Circular Road, highlights the spatial neglect faced by children. With only two public swimming pools in the central area—one on Sean MacDermott Street and another at the Markievicz Centre, which is set for demolition—opportunities for physical activity are severely limited.
For children to feel safe while playing, recreational areas must be visible from their homes, allowing parents to supervise from a distance. This need is fundamental, applicable to all types of housing in the city. As new developments arise, the lack of corresponding amenities becomes increasingly apparent. While developers may not see financial gain in providing such spaces, the social benefits for the community are invaluable.
The recent report from the Taskforce for Dublin, published in October 2024, did not address the needs of children and youths in the city. For meaningful change to occur, authorities must prioritize the enhancement of young people”s lives, making Dublin a child-friendly city. Listening to and addressing the needs of working-class communities, both Irish and immigrant, is essential for the overall improvement of the capital.
