FEATURING THE BLEEDING HORSE PUB AND THE WETHERSPOONS HOTEL
Today I had to visit my mother's home at Brighton Green and normally I would have walked to O'Connell Street and travelled on the 16 Bus. In the past I could have waited up to thirty minutes for a 16 bus to arrive. However, because of major changes discussed below, I got the LUAS tram from the Broadstone Tram Stop and then transferred to the 16 Bus at Upper Camden Street. The total transit time was greatly reduced mainly because the increase in frequency of the 16 bus service but also because of the reduction in walking distance.
BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign
BusConnects is a significant programme by the National Transport Authority (NTA) aimed at overhauling the bus network in the Dublin Metropolitan Area. This blog post delves into the key aspects of this initiative, including its purpose, advantages, progress, and public and business reactions.
Purpose and Advantages
The BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is driven by the need to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the bus network in the Dublin Metropolitan Area, catering to a growing population and evolving travel patterns. The redesign focuses on creating a simpler, more user-friendly network with increased service frequency, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. This shift from a primarily radial network to one based on spines and orbital routes represents a fundamental change that aims to improve connectivity and reduce reliance on the city centre for transfers
Key advantages of the BusConnects programme include:
Increased capacity and frequency: The network redesign will result in a 23% overall increase in bus services, with higher capacity and more frequent services, especially during peak hours, evenings, and weekends. Increased frequency offers several benefits, including simpler cross-city paths, better service matching to observed demand, and reduced bus congestion in the city centre. This means that passengers can travel more easily across the city centre, services can be adjusted to meet actual passenger numbers, and there will be less congestion caused by buses.
Enhanced connectivity: The new network features 'spines' radiating from the city centre, supported by orbital and radial routes, improving connectivity between suburbs and reducing reliance on the city centre for transfers. By providing more efficient orbital routes, BusConnects aims to decrease the need for buses to travel through the city centre, further contributing to reduced congestion.
Improved accessibility: With a 16% increase in the number of residents living within 400m of a frequent bus service to the city centre, the redesign aims to enhance accessibility for a larger portion of the population.
24-hour operations: Select routes will operate 24 hours a day, providing enhanced accessibility and convenience for commuters.
New connections: The network includes new connections to essential services like schools and hospitals, facilitating easier access for residents.
Faster and more reliable journeys: The programme includes the development of 230km of priority bus lanes, aiming to reduce travel times and improve the reliability of bus services.
Sustainable transport: The programme promotes the use of a new, sustainable, low-emission bus fleet, contributing to environmental goals.
Improved infrastructure
BusConnects includes upgrades to bus stops and shelters, with better signage and information, enhancing the overall passenger experience. It also includes the development of new park and ride facilities at key locations. These facilities will allow commuters to park their cars outside the city centre and use the bus network for their onward journey, reducing traffic congestion and promoting the use of public transport.
Overall, the BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is a long-term initiative with a vision to address the growing population and changing travel patterns in the Dublin Metropolitan Area. It aims to create a sustainable and efficient bus network that meets the needs of Dublin today and in the future.
Progress Made
The BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is being implemented in phases, with several phases already launched since 2021. This phased approach allows for a gradual rollout of the new network, minimising disruption and allowing for adjustments based on feedback and operational experience.
Here's an overview of the progress made, presented chronologically:
2021: The programme commenced with the implementation of initial phases, focusing on specific areas and routes.
2022: Phase 4, involving the G-Spine, was launched.
2023: This year saw significant progress with the implementation of Phases 5a and 5b. These phases introduced new orbital routes in the western and southern parts of Dublin, significantly increasing service kilometres and connectivity. Notably, 2023 also witnessed record-breaking public transport usage in Ireland, demonstrating the increasing demand for and reliance on public transport in Dublin. This highlights the importance of the BusConnects programme in providing an efficient and reliable public transport system.
September 2024: The NTA launched a new orbital route for Dublin's Northside, the N2 Orbital, as part of the BusConnects Network Redesign. This new route further enhances connectivity in the northern part of Dublin.
November 2024: The W6 Orbital bus route was launched, delivering new connectivity across Dublin and North Kildare. This route expands the reach of the BusConnects network and provides new travel options for commuters in these areas.
In addition to the network redesign, progress has been made on the infrastructure front, with planning approval received for several Core Bus Corridor schemes:
Tallaght/Clondalkin to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in October 2024.
Lucan to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in October 2024.
Ringsend to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in August 2024.
These approvals pave the way for the development of dedicated bus corridors, which will improve the speed and reliability of bus services.
Despite this progress, challenges remain, including potential delays in the implementation of certain phases and ongoing infrastructure development. For instance, Phase 6a, which was initially scheduled for December 2024, has been deferred to January 2025. This phase will introduce 24-hour spines E1 and E2, along with new radial, local (L1, L2, L3, L15, L26, L27), and express routes (X1 and X2).
Public and Business Reaction
The BusConnects programme has garnered a mixed reaction from the public and businesses. While many welcome the planned improvements to the bus network, concerns have been raised regarding potential disruptions during construction and the removal of some direct routes.
Public consultation has been a key part of the BusConnects programme, with over 72,000 submissions received during various stages. The NTA has taken these submissions into account, making adjustments to the network design to address concerns and minimise disruptions. For example, the number of users expected to lose their direct bus to town was reduced from 15% to 5% based on public feedback.
Some key points regarding public and business reaction include:
Concerns about route changes: Some commuters have expressed concerns about the need for transfers and potential increases in journey times due to the removal of direct routes.
Support for improved frequency and connectivity: Many people welcome the increased frequency of services, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, and the improved connectivity offered by the new network.
Appreciation for consultation: The NTA's efforts to engage with the public and businesses through consultations have been acknowledged, although some feel that more could be done to address specific concerns.
Environmental considerations: The programme's focus on sustainable transport and the introduction of a low-emission bus fleet have been positively received.
Public engagement and expertise: A notable example of public engagement is the contribution of a TCD student who charted better Dublin Bus routes. This highlights the public's desire for a more efficient bus network and their willingness to contribute to its improvement.
National Context
The BusConnects programme is not limited to Dublin. The NTA has also finalised BusConnects Network Redesigns for Limerick and Galway, with implementation plans in motion for these cities. Furthermore, the NTA has initiated plans for the BusConnects Cork project and new town bus networks. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving public transport across Ireland, not just in Dublin.
Harcourt Street Area and Multi-Modal Journey
To illustrate the impact of the BusConnects programme on a specific location and demonstrate its integration with existing transport infrastructure, let's consider my multi-modal journey from Lower Dominick Street to Brighton Square via the Harcourt Street tram stop and the 16 Bus at the Camden Street stop.
Harcourt Street Tram Stop
The Harcourt Street tram stop is a key stop on the Luas Green Line, located in front of the former Harcourt Street Railway station . This stop provides convenient access to various destinations in the city centre and beyond. It serves as an important interchange point for passengers transferring between the Luas and Dublin Bus services .
The Bleeding Horse: A Pub Steeped in History
One of the oldest establishments on Camden Street is The Bleeding Horse, a Wetherspoon pub located at 24 Upper Camden Street. Established in 1649, it stands as one of Dublin's most historic pubs. The Bleeding Horse is situated on what was once St. Kevin's Port, at the junction of two major highways leading out of the city. This strategic location undoubtedly contributed to its prominence in the past as a coaching inn and a hub of activity. In 1710, the inn was rebuilt, further solidifying its presence on Camden Street.
The pub's intriguing name has been the subject of much speculation, with two main theories emerging:
Bleeding for Relief: One explanation suggests that the name arose from the practice of bleeding horses to alleviate a condition called "head staggers," often caused by long journeys. In the days of horse-drawn carriages, this practice might have been a common sight at the inn, giving rise to its unusual name.
A Wounded Horse from Battle: Another theory links the name to the Battle of Rathmines in 1649. It is said that a wounded horse, fleeing from Cromwellian forces, sought refuge in the inn that stood on the site. This dramatic tale adds a layer of intrigue to the pub's already rich history. Interestingly, the name "The Bleeding Horse" was deemed offensive by previous owners who changed it to "The Falcon Inn" from the early 1970s to the early 1990s. However, the original name was eventually restored, acknowledging the pub's long-standing connection to Dublin's past.
The Bleeding Horse has also been a literary haunt, mentioned in classic novels like Sheridan Le Fanu's "Cock and Anchor" and James Joyce's "Ulysses." Its historical significance and literary connections add to the pub's unique atmosphere.
No. 12 Camden Street: A Legacy of Light and Colour
No. 12 Camden Street, now a Wetherspoon pub called Keavan's Port , which closes at 12:00 am , was once home to the studio of Thomas and John Earley, prominent figures in the Irish Arts and Crafts movement. The Earley family was renowned for their exquisite stained-glass work, which graced churches and cathedrals throughout Ireland and beyond.
While the research material doesn't provide a detailed visual description of the specific stained-glass window at No. 12, it does shed light on its fate. The building, after falling into dereliction, was acquired by Wetherspoon. Although the stained-glass window was not part of the Wetherspoon acquisition , it was illuminated on December 21st, 2012 (the shortest day of the year). This suggests an effort to preserve and appreciate the building's artistic heritage, even if the window itself may not be a permanent fixture within the pub. However, it's unclear whether this illumination was a one-off event or if it continues to this day.
It's worth noting that some of the Earley's work can still be seen in the fanlights above the doors of No. 12. These surviving pieces offer a glimpse into the artistry that once thrived within the building's walls. The transformation of this building from an artist's studio to a bustling pub speaks volumes about the changing nature of Camden Street and the repurposing of historic structures in Dublin.
Harcourt Street Station: From Railway Hub to Tram Stop
While not a Wetherspoon pub, Harcourt Street Station is a significant landmark on Camden Street. This former railway terminus, opened in 1859, served as the end point for the Dublin to Bray line in County Wicklow. The station building, designed by George Wilkinson, features a distinctive facade with Doric pillars and a large central arch. The station also had vaults underneath that were used to store whiskey.
During its operational years, the station witnessed its share of dramatic events. In 1900, a cattle train crashed through the wall at the end of the station. And in 1914, another accident occurred at the Hatch Street end of the station. While details of these incidents are scarce, they serve as reminders of the station's bustling past.
The station closed in 1958, and the building was sold in 1959 for £67,500. The railway line was eventually replaced by the Luas Green Line, Dublin's light rail system. The Luas Green Line largely follows the route of the old Harcourt Street railway line, connecting the present-day tram system to the area's railway heritage. A Luas stop now stands outside the old station building, which has been repurposed as a bar and restaurant. The train shed at the back of the station was until recently used as a garage/parking area.
Iveagh Court
Located at the rear of the old Harcourt Street Station, Iveagh Court is a modern office, apartment, and retail complex . This development replaced the former train shed and exemplifies the ongoing transformation of the Harcourt Street area.
Conclusion: A Street of Transformations
Camden Street presents a fascinating blend of historical buildings and modern businesses. Wetherspoon's presence on the street has brought new life to some of its older structures, while also raising questions about the preservation of historical features. The story of No. 12 Camden Street and the Earley studio highlights the importance of recognising and valuing the artistic heritage embedded within these buildings. The Bleeding Horse, with its long and colourful history, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional pubs. And Harcourt Street Station, transformed from a railway terminus to a tram stop, reflects the evolving nature of urban spaces.
The acquisition and repurposing of these historic buildings by Wetherspoon and other businesses reflect a broader trend in Dublin's urban landscape. While commercial interests drive these developments, they also offer an opportunity to preserve and revitalise historic structures that might otherwise fall into disrepair. However, it's crucial to strike a balance between commercial viability and the preservation of historical features. The case of No. 12 Camden Street, where the stained-glass window was not included in the Wetherspoon acquisition, raises questions about the extent to which these businesses prioritise historical preservation.
Camden Street continues to be a dynamic and evolving area, where the past and present intertwine. As the street continues to change, it's crucial to find ways to celebrate its unique character and ensure that its historical and cultural treasures are not lost amidst the tide of modernisation. I encourage you to take a stroll down Camden Street, explore its hidden corners, and appreciate the stories etched into its walls.
BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign
BusConnects is a significant programme by the National Transport Authority (NTA) aimed at overhauling the bus network in the Dublin Metropolitan Area. This blog post delves into the key aspects of this initiative, including its purpose, advantages, progress, and public and business reactions.
Purpose and Advantages
The BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is driven by the need to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the bus network in the Dublin Metropolitan Area, catering to a growing population and evolving travel patterns. The redesign focuses on creating a simpler, more user-friendly network with increased service frequency, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. This shift from a primarily radial network to one based on spines and orbital routes represents a fundamental change that aims to improve connectivity and reduce reliance on the city centre for transfers
Key advantages of the BusConnects programme include:
Increased capacity and frequency: The network redesign will result in a 23% overall increase in bus services, with higher capacity and more frequent services, especially during peak hours, evenings, and weekends. Increased frequency offers several benefits, including simpler cross-city paths, better service matching to observed demand, and reduced bus congestion in the city centre. This means that passengers can travel more easily across the city centre, services can be adjusted to meet actual passenger numbers, and there will be less congestion caused by buses.
Enhanced connectivity: The new network features 'spines' radiating from the city centre, supported by orbital and radial routes, improving connectivity between suburbs and reducing reliance on the city centre for transfers. By providing more efficient orbital routes, BusConnects aims to decrease the need for buses to travel through the city centre, further contributing to reduced congestion.
Improved accessibility: With a 16% increase in the number of residents living within 400m of a frequent bus service to the city centre, the redesign aims to enhance accessibility for a larger portion of the population.
24-hour operations: Select routes will operate 24 hours a day, providing enhanced accessibility and convenience for commuters.
New connections: The network includes new connections to essential services like schools and hospitals, facilitating easier access for residents.
Faster and more reliable journeys: The programme includes the development of 230km of priority bus lanes, aiming to reduce travel times and improve the reliability of bus services.
Sustainable transport: The programme promotes the use of a new, sustainable, low-emission bus fleet, contributing to environmental goals.
Improved infrastructure
BusConnects includes upgrades to bus stops and shelters, with better signage and information, enhancing the overall passenger experience. It also includes the development of new park and ride facilities at key locations. These facilities will allow commuters to park their cars outside the city centre and use the bus network for their onward journey, reducing traffic congestion and promoting the use of public transport.
Overall, the BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is a long-term initiative with a vision to address the growing population and changing travel patterns in the Dublin Metropolitan Area. It aims to create a sustainable and efficient bus network that meets the needs of Dublin today and in the future.
Progress Made
The BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is being implemented in phases, with several phases already launched since 2021. This phased approach allows for a gradual rollout of the new network, minimising disruption and allowing for adjustments based on feedback and operational experience.
Here's an overview of the progress made, presented chronologically:
2021: The programme commenced with the implementation of initial phases, focusing on specific areas and routes.
2022: Phase 4, involving the G-Spine, was launched.
2023: This year saw significant progress with the implementation of Phases 5a and 5b. These phases introduced new orbital routes in the western and southern parts of Dublin, significantly increasing service kilometres and connectivity. Notably, 2023 also witnessed record-breaking public transport usage in Ireland, demonstrating the increasing demand for and reliance on public transport in Dublin. This highlights the importance of the BusConnects programme in providing an efficient and reliable public transport system.
September 2024: The NTA launched a new orbital route for Dublin's Northside, the N2 Orbital, as part of the BusConnects Network Redesign. This new route further enhances connectivity in the northern part of Dublin.
November 2024: The W6 Orbital bus route was launched, delivering new connectivity across Dublin and North Kildare. This route expands the reach of the BusConnects network and provides new travel options for commuters in these areas.
In addition to the network redesign, progress has been made on the infrastructure front, with planning approval received for several Core Bus Corridor schemes:
Tallaght/Clondalkin to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in October 2024.
Lucan to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in October 2024.
Ringsend to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme: Planning approval received in August 2024.
These approvals pave the way for the development of dedicated bus corridors, which will improve the speed and reliability of bus services.
Despite this progress, challenges remain, including potential delays in the implementation of certain phases and ongoing infrastructure development. For instance, Phase 6a, which was initially scheduled for December 2024, has been deferred to January 2025. This phase will introduce 24-hour spines E1 and E2, along with new radial, local (L1, L2, L3, L15, L26, L27), and express routes (X1 and X2).
Public and Business Reaction
The BusConnects programme has garnered a mixed reaction from the public and businesses. While many welcome the planned improvements to the bus network, concerns have been raised regarding potential disruptions during construction and the removal of some direct routes.
Public consultation has been a key part of the BusConnects programme, with over 72,000 submissions received during various stages. The NTA has taken these submissions into account, making adjustments to the network design to address concerns and minimise disruptions. For example, the number of users expected to lose their direct bus to town was reduced from 15% to 5% based on public feedback.
Some key points regarding public and business reaction include:
Concerns about route changes: Some commuters have expressed concerns about the need for transfers and potential increases in journey times due to the removal of direct routes.
Support for improved frequency and connectivity: Many people welcome the increased frequency of services, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, and the improved connectivity offered by the new network.
Appreciation for consultation: The NTA's efforts to engage with the public and businesses through consultations have been acknowledged, although some feel that more could be done to address specific concerns.
Environmental considerations: The programme's focus on sustainable transport and the introduction of a low-emission bus fleet have been positively received.
Public engagement and expertise: A notable example of public engagement is the contribution of a TCD student who charted better Dublin Bus routes. This highlights the public's desire for a more efficient bus network and their willingness to contribute to its improvement.
National Context
The BusConnects programme is not limited to Dublin. The NTA has also finalised BusConnects Network Redesigns for Limerick and Galway, with implementation plans in motion for these cities. Furthermore, the NTA has initiated plans for the BusConnects Cork project and new town bus networks. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving public transport across Ireland, not just in Dublin.
Harcourt Street Area and Multi-Modal Journey
To illustrate the impact of the BusConnects programme on a specific location and demonstrate its integration with existing transport infrastructure, let's consider my multi-modal journey from Lower Dominick Street to Brighton Square via the Harcourt Street tram stop and the 16 Bus at the Camden Street stop.
Harcourt Street Tram Stop
The Harcourt Street tram stop is a key stop on the Luas Green Line, located in front of the former Harcourt Street Railway station . This stop provides convenient access to various destinations in the city centre and beyond. It serves as an important interchange point for passengers transferring between the Luas and Dublin Bus services .
The Bleeding Horse: A Pub Steeped in History
One of the oldest establishments on Camden Street is The Bleeding Horse, a Wetherspoon pub located at 24 Upper Camden Street. Established in 1649, it stands as one of Dublin's most historic pubs. The Bleeding Horse is situated on what was once St. Kevin's Port, at the junction of two major highways leading out of the city. This strategic location undoubtedly contributed to its prominence in the past as a coaching inn and a hub of activity. In 1710, the inn was rebuilt, further solidifying its presence on Camden Street.
The pub's intriguing name has been the subject of much speculation, with two main theories emerging:
Bleeding for Relief: One explanation suggests that the name arose from the practice of bleeding horses to alleviate a condition called "head staggers," often caused by long journeys. In the days of horse-drawn carriages, this practice might have been a common sight at the inn, giving rise to its unusual name.
A Wounded Horse from Battle: Another theory links the name to the Battle of Rathmines in 1649. It is said that a wounded horse, fleeing from Cromwellian forces, sought refuge in the inn that stood on the site. This dramatic tale adds a layer of intrigue to the pub's already rich history. Interestingly, the name "The Bleeding Horse" was deemed offensive by previous owners who changed it to "The Falcon Inn" from the early 1970s to the early 1990s. However, the original name was eventually restored, acknowledging the pub's long-standing connection to Dublin's past.
The Bleeding Horse has also been a literary haunt, mentioned in classic novels like Sheridan Le Fanu's "Cock and Anchor" and James Joyce's "Ulysses." Its historical significance and literary connections add to the pub's unique atmosphere.
No. 12 Camden Street: A Legacy of Light and Colour
No. 12 Camden Street, now a Wetherspoon pub called Keavan's Port , which closes at 12:00 am , was once home to the studio of Thomas and John Earley, prominent figures in the Irish Arts and Crafts movement. The Earley family was renowned for their exquisite stained-glass work, which graced churches and cathedrals throughout Ireland and beyond.
While the research material doesn't provide a detailed visual description of the specific stained-glass window at No. 12, it does shed light on its fate. The building, after falling into dereliction, was acquired by Wetherspoon. Although the stained-glass window was not part of the Wetherspoon acquisition , it was illuminated on December 21st, 2012 (the shortest day of the year). This suggests an effort to preserve and appreciate the building's artistic heritage, even if the window itself may not be a permanent fixture within the pub. However, it's unclear whether this illumination was a one-off event or if it continues to this day.
It's worth noting that some of the Earley's work can still be seen in the fanlights above the doors of No. 12. These surviving pieces offer a glimpse into the artistry that once thrived within the building's walls. The transformation of this building from an artist's studio to a bustling pub speaks volumes about the changing nature of Camden Street and the repurposing of historic structures in Dublin.
Harcourt Street Station: From Railway Hub to Tram Stop
While not a Wetherspoon pub, Harcourt Street Station is a significant landmark on Camden Street. This former railway terminus, opened in 1859, served as the end point for the Dublin to Bray line in County Wicklow. The station building, designed by George Wilkinson, features a distinctive facade with Doric pillars and a large central arch. The station also had vaults underneath that were used to store whiskey.
During its operational years, the station witnessed its share of dramatic events. In 1900, a cattle train crashed through the wall at the end of the station. And in 1914, another accident occurred at the Hatch Street end of the station. While details of these incidents are scarce, they serve as reminders of the station's bustling past.
The station closed in 1958, and the building was sold in 1959 for £67,500. The railway line was eventually replaced by the Luas Green Line, Dublin's light rail system. The Luas Green Line largely follows the route of the old Harcourt Street railway line, connecting the present-day tram system to the area's railway heritage. A Luas stop now stands outside the old station building, which has been repurposed as a bar and restaurant. The train shed at the back of the station was until recently used as a garage/parking area.
Iveagh Court
Located at the rear of the old Harcourt Street Station, Iveagh Court is a modern office, apartment, and retail complex . This development replaced the former train shed and exemplifies the ongoing transformation of the Harcourt Street area.
Conclusion: A Street of Transformations
Camden Street presents a fascinating blend of historical buildings and modern businesses. Wetherspoon's presence on the street has brought new life to some of its older structures, while also raising questions about the preservation of historical features. The story of No. 12 Camden Street and the Earley studio highlights the importance of recognising and valuing the artistic heritage embedded within these buildings. The Bleeding Horse, with its long and colourful history, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional pubs. And Harcourt Street Station, transformed from a railway terminus to a tram stop, reflects the evolving nature of urban spaces.
The acquisition and repurposing of these historic buildings by Wetherspoon and other businesses reflect a broader trend in Dublin's urban landscape. While commercial interests drive these developments, they also offer an opportunity to preserve and revitalise historic structures that might otherwise fall into disrepair. However, it's crucial to strike a balance between commercial viability and the preservation of historical features. The case of No. 12 Camden Street, where the stained-glass window was not included in the Wetherspoon acquisition, raises questions about the extent to which these businesses prioritise historical preservation.
Camden Street continues to be a dynamic and evolving area, where the past and present intertwine. As the street continues to change, it's crucial to find ways to celebrate its unique character and ensure that its historical and cultural treasures are not lost amidst the tide of modernisation. I encourage you to take a stroll down Camden Street, explore its hidden corners, and appreciate the stories etched into its walls.
FEATURING THE BLEEDING HORSE PUB AND THE WETHERSPOONS HOTEL