Did you know that Cherry Orchard in Dublin wasn’t always the bustling suburb it is today? It has a fascinating history. Once a largely rural area, Cherry Orchard transformed significantly in the mid-20th century.
Dublin City Council initiated social housing developments. These developments extended into both Ballyfermot and Cherry Orchard. One of the earliest major projects was Cherry Orchard Hospital. It opened its doors in 1953.
A local football club called Cherry Orchard F.C. was established in 1957. It added to the community’s growing identity. Later, in the mid-1980s, the Church of the Holy Sacrament was opened. You can find it on Cherry Orchard Avenue.
However, Cherry Orchard faced some challenges. During the 1980s and 1990s, the area experienced issues with drug dealing. Joyriding was also a concern. A group known as the Red Wall Gang was involved. By 1995, the “red wall” became a hub for Ireland’s illegal drug trade. In 1995, the gang was known for a Halloween riot.
In September 2022, a Garda car was rammed. This incident led to the creation of the Cherry Orchard Development Group. Its purpose was to coordinate and boost community support.
Significant improvements have been made to Cherry Orchard. In 2008, Park West and Cherry Orchard railway station opened. It replaced an earlier station from 1994.
In 2015, a 10-point plan was created for Cherry Orchard and Park West. It was intended to guide future development. Earlier plans from 2002 were delayed by economic challenges. The council then introduced new plans to develop infrastructure and public transport. In October 2019, Dublin City Council approved an updated Local Area Plan for Park West and Cherry Orchard.
Cherry Orchard has evolved over the years. Dublin City Council bought farmland in the Ballyfermot area. This happened in the late 1940s and 1950s. Initially, Cherry Orchard was mainly known for its fever hospital. The remaining land was used for agriculture. Residential estates like Blackditch, Cloverhill, and Cherry Orchard were developed. These estates emerged in the 1950s, 1970s, and 1980s.