Works to upgrade Meath Street to begin on Monday

Work is due to get underway this month on a major public realm upgrade of Meath Street in Dublin’s Liberties, aimed at revitalising one of the area’s most historic and well-known streets.

Dublin City Council has appointed Cairn Construction as the main contractor for the project, which will deliver new paving, improved pedestrian facilities, changes to the road layout, and the introduction of street trees and landscaping along the length of the street.

The council says the works are designed to support Meath Street’s traditional retail base while also making room for a broader mix of street activity. This will include space for café seating, street trading and community or market events, with the overall aim of improving accessibility and enhancing the street’s public environment.

The scheme follows a multi-year design and consultation process with local traders and residents, which took place during 2020 and 2021. The final design was approved by Dublin city councillors in late 2023.

However, the project proved controversial during the approval process. Independent councillor Mannix Flynn criticised the proposed redesign, which mirrors similar works carried out on nearby Francis Street, describing it as a form of “cultural appropriation”. He argued that Meath Street has a distinct working-class character that could be diluted by the changes.

Sinn Féin TD Máire Devine also raised concerns at the time, saying some residents and traders felt consultation had not gone far enough. She said Meath Street was “an extremely different street” to Francis Street and required a more tailored approach.

In response, council officials said the scheme was designed to balance improvements with the practical needs of businesses and residents. While some on-street car parking will be removed to allow for wider footpaths, seating areas and planting, traffic access, parking and loading facilities will remain in place.

Other councillors supported the project, arguing that wider footpaths, improved seating and dedicated space for street trading are essential to support local businesses and make the street more accessible for pedestrians.

Since planning approval was granted, detailed design work has been completed. The project also follows a major upgrade carried out last summer by Uisce Éireann to water mains running beneath the street.

Construction is expected to begin at the southern end of Meath Street, between Carman’s Hall and The Coombe, and will proceed in phases to reduce disruption and keep the street open throughout the works. The project is expected to continue into the second half of 2027.

Cairn Construction will be responsible for ongoing communication with local residents and businesses during the construction period. The project forms part of Dublin City Council’s wider regeneration programme for the Liberties and is supported by funding from the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.