Ever wondered how Dublin’s port transformed from swampland to a bustling hub? Today we are standing at the North Wall in Dublin. This area east of Dublin’s inner north side reveals a fascinating story of land reclamation and maritime innovation. The North Wall’s tale is deeply entwined with the River Liffey. It all started with the construction of the North Bull Wall to shape Dublin Port.
Imagine Dublin in the early 1700s. The area we now know as the North Wall was often submerged by seawater. In 1717, Dublin Corporation began a project to reclaim this land. They divided the area into plots, and by 1750, it was fully embanked. This marked the beginning of the North Wall as we know it.
Look around you. Streets like Mayor Street, Guild Street and Sheriff Street were laid out during this time. These names reflect the important figures and institutions of Dublin Corporation. The area was separated from the rest of Dublin by what was then called the Strand Road. Today, it is known as North Strand.
Let’s talk about Castleforbes. This part of the North Wall gets its name from George Forbes, the 3rd Earl of Granard. He was Lord Mayor of Dublin in 1720. Around 1729, he built a house here. Later, Lever Brothers acquired the site. In 1927, they built their main Dublin factory on the grounds of the old Dublin Glass Bottle Company.
Now, consider the changes the North Wall has undergone. From older dockers’ housing to modern apartment blocks and offices, this area has transformed. The Docklands Strategic Development Zone Planning Scheme spurred much of this development. Large projects like Spencer Dock, Dublin Landings and the Point Village have reshaped the landscape.
But the North Wall isn’t just about buildings and streets. It’s also a story of maritime innovation. One remarkable tale involves a travelling lighthouse. The original lighthouse was built in the early 19th century. As Dublin Port expanded, thanks to the work of Bindon Blood Stoney, the lighthouse was moved. In 1937, it was relocated to the end of a pier extension.
Interestingly, the North Wall Quay extension may be shortened. The lighthouse could be moved again to the end of the new, shorter pier. Dublin Port plans to make the lighthouse a heritage site. This will allow public access.
Also, Captain William Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame played a role here. His study of currents in Dublin Bay informed the construction of the North Wall. This led to the growth of Bull Island. Engineer Bindon Blood Stoney designed the diving bell used in the North Wall extension’s construction.
From its origins as reclaimed land to its modern developments, the North Wall is a testament to Dublin’s evolving port and community.