BOLTON STREET

BOLTON STREET - WOULD YOU CONSIDER TO BE AN UGLY STREET

BOLTON STREET [WOULD YOU CONSIDER TO BE AN UGLY STREET]

Why Bolton Street, Dublin, Might Be Considered "Ugly":

Dominance of the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) / Technological University Dublin (TUD): A significant portion of Bolton Street is taken up by the campus buildings. While some older parts of the college have historical character, many of the newer buildings lean towards functional, modern architecture that isn't particularly known for its aesthetic appeal. These are large structures and lack some of the finer architectural details that grace other parts of Dublin.

Traffic and Congestion: Bolton Street is a busy thoroughfare, especially during peak hours. It connects several key routes in the north inner city, leading to significant traffic, noise, and a less pleasant pedestrian experience. The constant flow of cars and trucks can make the street feel overwhelming. An other issue is the amount of E-Scooters many of which travel in the wrong direction.

Lack of Uniformity and Architectural Harmony: Bolton Street presents a mix of building styles and eras. You'll find Georgian buildings alongside modern office blocks and the DIT/TUD structures. While this mix can be interesting in some areas, on Bolton Street, it often feels disjointed rather than harmonious. Some buildings are not well maintained.

Limited Retail and Commercial Appeal: While there are some shops and businesses, Bolton Street isn't a major retail destination. Many of the businesses cater to the student population or are more functional in nature (e.g., hardware stores, takeaways). This can make it feel less vibrant than other Dublin streets.

Less Greenery than Other Dublin Areas: Compared to some of Dublin's more leafy streets, Bolton Street has relatively little greenery. This contributes to a harder, more urban feel.

Social Issues: Like many inner-city areas, the north side of Dublin, including parts around Bolton Street, has historically faced issues with social deprivation, which can sometimes be reflected in the street environment. There is a bit of a "gritty" feel to the street.