Welcome to the latest edition of the Blanch Bulletin.

A new chapter has officially begun for local book lovers — Waterstones has opened its doors in Blanchardstown just in time for peak summer reading season.

The new store, located beside Mountain Warehouse in Westend Retail Park, welcomed its first customers earlier than planned after staff pushed to get the doors open ahead of schedule.

This marks the first Waterstones-branded store in Dublin, adding to its wider Irish presence through more than 10 stores nationwide and its connection with Hodges Figgis.

Opening weekend also came with a bonus for readers — a Double Stamps loyalty offer running across the first three days, giving book buyers an extra reason to stock up on their summer reading lists.

The shop is now open daily with extended evening hours during the week, making it easy to drop in whether you're commuting, shopping, or just browsing for your next read.

There was disappointment in Hartstown this week after the sculpture at the entrance to the park was damaged in an act of vandalism.

Local representatives described the incident as careless and disheartening, noting that public spaces like this belong to the entire community and should be respected and protected.

The damage has since been assessed, and in a strong show of community spirit, local residents came together to help restore and tidy the area — a reminder of how quickly the community can respond when shared spaces are impacted.

If anyone witnessed the incident or has any information, they are encouraged to contact their local Garda station.

Some better news from Hartstown-Huntstown — a new piece of public artwork has been unveiled in the area, commissioned by Fingal County Council and created by local artist Claire Murphy.

The piece, located at the Hartstown Park entrance in Huntstown, celebrates the identity of the local community, including references to Parkrun, Hartstown Huntstown FC (HHFC), and everyday life in the area.

It has been warmly received locally as a meaningful addition to the public space, highlighting the role of community sport, activity, and connection in the area.

The ongoing debate around paid parking at Blanchardstown Centre has taken another turn, with An Coimisiún Pleanála once again delaying its decision.

Campaign group “No Barriers To Blanch” shared the update this week, confirming that no final ruling has yet been made on the proposed car park management changes.

The issue continues to generate strong local interest, particularly among residents and shoppers concerned about accessibility and cost impacts.

For now, the wait continues as the planning authority takes further time to review the proposal.

Huntstown Community Centre is launching a new block of yoga and meditation classes this summer, running every Thursday from August 6th to August 27th.

The four-week programme is designed to support relaxation, wellbeing, and mindfulness in a community setting.

Cost is €45 for the full course or €13.50 per drop-in session.

To book a place, contact: [email protected]

Mulhuddart Community Centre is running its popular summer camps for children aged 5–10 this July and August.

The camps will take place across two weeks:

Age groups include 5–6, 7–8, and 9–10, with activities designed to keep kids active, social, and engaged throughout the summer holidays.

Applications are open directly through the community centre reception.

A new clean energy pilot has been launched at a Dublin data centre in Blanchardstown, where hydrogen-powered generators are being trialled as part of a 12-week research project.

The units, developed by GeoPura, are being used to support cooling systems and reduce reliance on diesel or gas backup generators.

Equinix Ireland says the project could help address long-term energy challenges while reducing onsite emissions, particularly as data demand continues to rise.

The trial is being run in collaboration with ESB and is being closely watched as part of Ireland’s broader energy transition strategy.

Fingal County Council has announced plans for a major new development at Dunsink, with proposals for up to 18,500 homes as part of a long-term “City Quarter” vision.

The plan outlines a large-scale, transport-oriented development featuring housing, schools, parks, community spaces, and improved transport links.

Located inside the M50 between Blanchardstown, Castleknock, and Finglas, the site is being described as one of the most significant development opportunities in Dublin.

The proposal is now open for public consultation, with submissions invited until the end of July.

Fingal County Council is launching a free cycling programme aimed at helping people aged 55+ regain confidence on the bike.

The 10-week “Sofa to Saddle” course begins June 23rd at Racecourse Park in Dublin 13 and focuses on balance, control, and road confidence.

Bikes can be provided, though participants must bring their own helmets. Places are limited and registration is required in advance.

Friday will be hot, humid, and unsettled with highs of 27–30°C and a mix of sun, cloud, and scattered showers.

The weekend turns more changeable:

Temperatures settle back into the high teens to low 20s.

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