On Sunday, urban community consultants ‘A Playful City’ (APC) shared their research with Dublin City Council, outlining plans to transform Sheriff Street Park into a vibrant, community-focused area for all residents of north inner city Dublin.

This collaboration between the local community and APC has focused on identifying ways to repurpose this overlooked and underutilised green space.

Located near the statue of ‘The Dubliners’ musician Luke Kelly and adjacent to The Convention Centre Dublin, the park is seen as a pivotal site for revitalization that could inspire similar projects in other communities across the country.

Community groups and residents involved in the project are eager forDublin City Council to review the research findings, with the hope that the Council will address the key concerns raised.

The research so far has revealed the following community insights:

Many residents feel the area is restricted and unsafe due to ongoing anti-social behaviour, the presence of uncontrolled dogs, drug use, and vandalism.

There is a strong sentiment that the park is underutilized and would benefit from community-led oversight. A common request is for a pleasant seating area where community members can meet, talk, and share ideas.

Young parents have emphasized the urgent need for a safe space where children can play and enjoy fresh air.

The local community has named the area Rainbow Park and has repeatedly raised concerns about accessibility and cleanliness with public representatives, but these issues remain unresolved. Accessibility for all, including those with special needs and disabilities, is a priority

for the community.


Over the past three months, A Playful City has gathered these insights from local groups, aiming to swiftly revitalize the neglected green space at the heart of Sheriff Street.

Neasa Ní Bhriain, director of A Playful City, stated: “This research underscores the community’s urgent desire to regenerate a neglected area in Dublin’s densely populated north inner city. We are dedicated to amplifying the voices of all the community groups involved in this project.

“There is something beautiful about this area that has been overlooked for too long, much to the distress of the community and the people of Sheriff Street who are eager to restore a sense of pride in their neighbourhood.”

She added: “While the area has seen rapid development, this small green space has been neglected, much to the dismay of the people of Sheriff Street, who are keen to bring back a sense of pride.”

APC’s efforts have been supported by HubSpot, a long-time partner committed to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local initiatives around their Dublin office.

On Sunday, A Playful City hosted a carnival event, providing the community with opportunities to share their ideas and feedback on the ongoing transformation of Rainbow Park, with the goal of making it a sustainable, well-loved hub of activity and connection.