ASHINGTON PARK AND PELLETSTOWN STATION
ASHINGTON PARK AND PELLETSTOWN STATION [31 MARCH 2025]
Note: Today I had a chat with a lady while waiting for the 122 bus to arrive. She claimed that the park was now well lit at night and that anti-social activity was not a real issue but it was rumoured that the 122 bus service would be discontinued as it was claimed that the train service from Pelletstown Station had increased in frequency and also because the Navan Road, nearby, was serviced by a number of high frequency bus services.
Ashington Park, a modest green space nestled within the Cabra district of Dublin, offers a simple, open expanse of grassland bordered by a perimeter pathway. While its simplicity lends itself to a peaceful stroll, the park lacks dedicated play areas or extensive facilities, a point of contention among local residents. Suggestions for improvement include the addition of seating and the removal of the park's perimeter mounds, which currently obstruct visibility and are perceived to contribute to feelings of insecurity.
Regrettably, Ashington Park has experienced instances of anti-social behaviour, which have been documented and discussed in local council meetings. Issues such as congregating groups, noise disturbances, occasional drug-related activity, and littering have been reported. These occurrences have led some residents to express concerns about their safety, particularly during the evening hours. The lack of adequate lighting, coupled with the aforementioned mounds that impede clear sightlines, are thought to exacerbate these issues. While the local council has responded with measures such as increased Garda Síochána patrols, residents continue to advocate for enhanced lighting and the removal of the mounds to improve overall visibility and security.
It's crucial to emphasise that while these concerns are valid, Ashington Park is not perpetually unsafe. During daylight hours, many individuals utilise the park without incident. Nevertheless, vigilance is advised, particularly when visiting alone or after dark.
Cabra, the park's locale, is a residential suburb situated on Dublin's northside. Characterised by a mix of housing styles, including numerous former Corporation estates, Cabra fosters a strong sense of community, supported by local shops and amenities. Contrary to some reports placing Ashington Park "off the Navan Road", it is more accurately located near the intersection of Ratoath Road and Cabra Road, both of which connect to the Navan Road.
The Navan Road, a significant arterial route extending westward from Dublin city centre, bears historical significance, its name reflecting its destination, Navan, County Meath. This thoroughfare features a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
Ashington Park enjoys excellent public transport connectivity:
Dublin Bus: A comprehensive network of bus routes, including the 120, 122, 38/a/b, 37, 39, 39a, 70, 70n, and 46a, serves the area, providing access to Dublin city centre and other regions. Note: By the time you read this the bus routes may have changed - the 46A has been discontinued.
Pelletstown Train Station: Pelletstown Station, with direct access to Ashington Park via steps and a ramp, offers frequent commuter services on the Maynooth/M3 Parkway line, facilitating rapid transit to Dublin city centre and neighbouring locales. This renders the park particularly accessible via rail.
Luas: Cabra Luas stop, on the Green Line, offers a convenient tram service to the city centre and south Dublin.
Note: Today I had a chat with a lady while waiting for the 122 bus to arrive. She claimed that the park was now well lit at night and that anti-social activity was not a real issue but it was rumoured that the 122 bus service would be discontinued as it was claimed that the train service from Pelletstown Station had increased in frequency and also because the Navan Road, nearby, was serviced by a number of high frequency bus services.
Ashington Park, a modest green space nestled within the Cabra district of Dublin, offers a simple, open expanse of grassland bordered by a perimeter pathway. While its simplicity lends itself to a peaceful stroll, the park lacks dedicated play areas or extensive facilities, a point of contention among local residents. Suggestions for improvement include the addition of seating and the removal of the park's perimeter mounds, which currently obstruct visibility and are perceived to contribute to feelings of insecurity.
Regrettably, Ashington Park has experienced instances of anti-social behaviour, which have been documented and discussed in local council meetings. Issues such as congregating groups, noise disturbances, occasional drug-related activity, and littering have been reported. These occurrences have led some residents to express concerns about their safety, particularly during the evening hours. The lack of adequate lighting, coupled with the aforementioned mounds that impede clear sightlines, are thought to exacerbate these issues. While the local council has responded with measures such as increased Garda Síochána patrols, residents continue to advocate for enhanced lighting and the removal of the mounds to improve overall visibility and security.
It's crucial to emphasise that while these concerns are valid, Ashington Park is not perpetually unsafe. During daylight hours, many individuals utilise the park without incident. Nevertheless, vigilance is advised, particularly when visiting alone or after dark.
Cabra, the park's locale, is a residential suburb situated on Dublin's northside. Characterised by a mix of housing styles, including numerous former Corporation estates, Cabra fosters a strong sense of community, supported by local shops and amenities. Contrary to some reports placing Ashington Park "off the Navan Road", it is more accurately located near the intersection of Ratoath Road and Cabra Road, both of which connect to the Navan Road.
The Navan Road, a significant arterial route extending westward from Dublin city centre, bears historical significance, its name reflecting its destination, Navan, County Meath. This thoroughfare features a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
Ashington Park enjoys excellent public transport connectivity:
Dublin Bus: A comprehensive network of bus routes, including the 120, 122, 38/a/b, 37, 39, 39a, 70, 70n, and 46a, serves the area, providing access to Dublin city centre and other regions. Note: By the time you read this the bus routes may have changed - the 46A has been discontinued.
Pelletstown Train Station: Pelletstown Station, with direct access to Ashington Park via steps and a ramp, offers frequent commuter services on the Maynooth/M3 Parkway line, facilitating rapid transit to Dublin city centre and neighbouring locales. This renders the park particularly accessible via rail.
Luas: Cabra Luas stop, on the Green Line, offers a convenient tram service to the city centre and south Dublin.
ASHINGTON PARK AND PELLETSTOWN STATION