Good morning, South Dublin!
Whether you're celebrating a big Irish win at the Aviva or nursing a "Valentine’s dinner" headache, Sunday is officially for resting. The city is a little quieter this morning as the rugby crowds head home, but we’ve got some massive local news that will affect the Southside skyline for years to come.
⛅ WEATHER Today:
Today: 🌤️ Sunny Spells | High: 10°C | Low: 4°C
The vibe: Crisp and bright! It’s the perfect morning for a walk in Marlay Park to clear the head.
📣 THE BIG SCOOP The "Dundrum Central" Green Light
The Gist: An Coimisiún Pleanála has officially cleared the final hurdles for the Dundrum Central development at the old Central Mental Hospital site.
The Details:
The Project: Nearly 1,000 new homes (mostly apartments) are set to be built, ranging from 2 to 8 stories.
The Controversy: While it provides much-needed housing near the Luas, local resident groups in Dundrum and Windy Arbour have raised concerns about the "scale and density" impacting the historic character of the area.
The Timeline: Infrastructure work is expected to ramp up by early summer.
Why it matters: This is one of the largest residential projects in the history of D14. It will bring thousands of new neighbors to the area, meaning more demand for local cafes, schools, and—crucially—space on the Green Line Luas.
📰 SOUTH SIDE SNIPPETS
Tallaght Stadium Cleanup: After yesterday's massive footfall, SDCC crews are out in force this morning around Whitestown and the stadium. A big shoutout to the local "Tidy Towns" volunteers also helping keep D24 sparkling.
Sandyford Speed Van Alert: A reminder that "National Slow Down" checks are ongoing this weekend. We’ve spotted vans on the Drury's Way/Leopardstown Road stretch—keep it steady!
Dalkey Book Festival Tease: The first "Save the Date" whispers for the June festival are starting to circulate in local bookshops. Dalkey is already prepping for its biggest summer yet.
Rathmines Coffee Scene: A new "micro-roastery" pop-up has appeared near the Swan Centre this morning. Perfect if you need a serious caffeine hit to start your Sunday.
🍴 THE SUNDAY "ROAST" SCOOP
The best spots to hide away today:
The Local Hero: The Old Mill (Tallaght). Their Sunday carvery is legendary for a reason—get there early because it fills up fast!
The Gastropub: The Exchequer (Ranelagh). Known for their "Family Style" roasts where you can carve the meat yourself at the table.
The Coastal Choice: The Purty Kitchen (Dún Laoghaire). Cozy, historic, and the perfect reward after a walk on the pier.
In case you missed it
📅 WHAT'S ON (The Wednesday Planner)

Sunday Market @ Marlay Park | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | From artisan cheeses to local crafts, it’s a Southside staple.

Traditional Session @ The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham | The perfect low-key end to the week.

Marlay Park looking spectacular in the Sunday morning frost. The joggers are already out in force!
📢 WHAT’S THE SCOOP ON YOUR STREET?
Spotted a new planning sign? Noticed a shop closing? Send to this email [email protected] Help us keep the Southside informed! 🤫
👋 WRAP UP
Take it easy today, Dublin. You've earned a slow Sunday!
— The Dublin Scoop Team
