Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has secured approximately €17.1 million for six regeneration projects, delivering a major boost for public spaces, transport, community facilities and long-term planning across the county. The announcement is a significant development for Dublin news, with projects planned in Blackrock, Dún Laoghaire, Dundrum, Sandyford and Shankill.
The funding comes through the first call of the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund, which has replaced the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund. It is intended to support sustainable urban renewal and help local authorities create stronger, better-connected communities.
Six projects set to reshape local areas
The investment covers projects at different stages, ranging from planning and feasibility work to construction-ready schemes. The largest allocations include:
- Imaginosity refurbishment, Sandyford: €7.5 million to acquire and repurpose the vacant building as a permanent community and library facility.
- Dundrum Living Streets: €7.4 million for safer walking and cycling facilities, permanent street improvements and better routes to Holy Cross School.
- Metals Green, Dún Laoghaire: €1.8 million to create an accessible urban park with paths, an open lawn, play facilities and space for community events.
- Blackrock Bath Place: €150,000 for design work supporting a future public plaza, mobility hub and improved connections around Blackrock DART station.
- Sandyford Urban Framework Plan Review: €150,000 to guide coordinated decisions on housing, transport, employment, infrastructure and public amenities.
- Shanganagh Castle Development: €150,000 for an integrated urban strategy, conservation work and assessments supporting the adaptive reuse of the protected structure.
Dublin business and community benefits
The Sandyford projects have particular importance for Dublin business. A revised urban framework will examine the wider racecourse and publicly owned lands, helping coordinate future development in one of the county’s most important employment districts.
Meanwhile, the Imaginosity proposal could provide a lasting civic resource for residents, with renovation plans focused on accessibility, safety and energy efficiency. In Dún Laoghaire, the Metals Green scheme is designed to make a prominent public space more welcoming and useful throughout the year.
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Safer streets and long-term regeneration
Dundrum Living Streets will retain the southbound cycle lane on Dundrum Main Street while replacing temporary measures with permanent features. The scheme will combine mixed-traffic arrangements with segregated facilities in selected locations, alongside planting, street furniture and upgraded surfaces.
The council says the improvements will support active travel and address longstanding safety concerns. Category 1B projects are intended to be delivered in the short term, with works expected to be on site by September 2027. Category 1A funding supports projects requiring longer-term preparation and delivery.
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What the funding means for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown
The council’s Cathaoirleach, Barry Saul, said the projects would improve the county as a place to live, work and visit. Chief Executive Frank Curran also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the council and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Collectively, the schemes connect public realm upgrades with community services, sustainable transport and heritage-led planning. They also show how targeted public investment can support economic activity while improving everyday life for residents.
Conclusion
This €17.1 million programme marks an important step in the county’s regeneration plans. From safer streets and new community facilities to heritage conservation and strategic growth, the projects are set to shape Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown for years to come. For residents and businesses, the funding represents a practical investment in a more accessible, connected and sustainable future—and a major story in Dublin news.
