Good morning, South Dublin!
Happy Sunday! If you’re heading out for a flat white or catching a bus today, take note: it’s a big day for local transport. We’ve also got the latest on a massive housing milestone in Dundrum that will change the skyline for good.
⛅ WEATHER Today:
Today: 🌤️ Bright Spells | High: 10°C | Low: 4°C
The vibe: A crisp, dry February Sunday. Perfect for a walk in Marlay Park or a stroll through Ranelagh Village before the Monday rush.
📣 THE BIG SCOOP BusConnects "Big Switch": Routes 80, 23, and 24 Change Today
The Gist: If you’re waiting at your usual stop this morning, you might be waiting a long time. As of today, Sunday, February 8th, major amendments to Route 80 (Liffey Valley to Palmerston Park) and Northside routes 23 and 24 go live.
The Details:
The Route 80 Change: To avoid "unpredictable traffic" near Christchurch, the bus will now divert at Bridge Street, heading along the Quays to O’Connell Bridge, then through College Green to South Great George’s Street.
Why now? This is an interim fix to improve reliability before the massive College Green Pedestrian Plaza construction begins later this year.
Reliability: The NTA and Dublin Bus are responding to "outcry from locals" about bus bunching and delays.
Why it matters: This affects thousands of commuters in Ranelagh, Dartry, and Rathmines. Check the TFI Live app before you leave—your stop might have moved!
📰 SOUTH SIDE SNIPPETS
Dundrum Central Approved: The wait is over. An Coimisiún Pleanála has officially granted permission for 934 new homes at the old Central Mental Hospital site. Expect 2-8 story buildings, a new community centre, and a medical hub.
Sandyford Solidarity: A major community campaign is underway in Glencullen-Sandyford to support a local family facing deportation. Councillor Lettie McCarthy and local schools are leading the call for a "community-first" intervention.
Home Reno Inspiration: Today is the final day of the Selfbuild Extend & Renovate Live show at the National Show Centre (just a quick spin up the M50). Perfect if you're planning a D14 kitchen extension!
Dún Laoghaire Safety: Following an aggravated burglary in the area on Feb 2nd, local Gardaí have stepped up patrols this weekend. Stay vigilant and keep those side gates locked.
In case you missed it
📅 WHAT'S ON (The Sunday Planner)
Don't stay on the couch all weekend.
Carnaval Dublin @ Button Factory | 5:00 PM | Bringing the heat of Brazil to a cold Dublin Saturday
Hamlet @ Pavilion Theatre, Dún Laoghaire | 2:00 PM | A high-definition screening of the masterpiece.
Love Blooms Valentine's Concert @ Pepper Canister Church | 6:15 PM | Pure choral magic.
📢 WHAT’S THE SCOOP ON YOUR STREET? Spotted a new planning sign? Noticed a shop closing? Reply to this email or visit our [Community Hub]. Help us keep the Southside informed! 🤫
👋 WRAP UP
Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts—it’s the perfect day for a roast and a reset!
— The Dublin Scoop Team
