Pride of Place Judges Visit dlr

Cllr Barry Saul, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, recently welcomed Pride of Place judges Brendan McGrath and Tim Caffery to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown as they began their assessment of the county's nominations for the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the outstanding work being carried out by local communities, volunteers and organisations that help make dlr a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming place to live. The IPB Pride of Place Awards recognise excellence in community development and celebrate the efforts of people and groups who work tirelessly to improve their local areas and strengthen community life across the island of Ireland. The Awards will take place in the Dublin Convention Centre on 24 October.
 
dlr Pride of Place 2026 Nominees
 
This year, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has nominated four exceptional projects that reflect the county's commitment to heritage, community development, and youth engagement.
 
Community Tourism Category – Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre
 
Built in the 14th century when Dalkey was a thriving medieval port, Dalkey Castle was constructed to protect valuable cargo arriving through the town. Today, the award-winning Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre brings history to life through immersive living history experiences, costumed performers and interactive exhibitions. The site also celebrates the area's rich literary heritage through its Writers' Gallery and annual events such as Bloomsday and the Maeve Binchy Literary Festival. The centre continues to play an important role in promoting tourism, culture and heritage within the county.
 
Population 1,000-2,000 Category – Ballyogan
 
At the heart of Ballyogan is a strong spirit of partnership, pride and community. The Samuel Beckett Community Facility serves as a central hub where organisations, residents and volunteers work together to support local families and strengthen community connections. Through the combined efforts of partners including Ballyogan Family Resource Centre, Crosscare, Barnardos, Ballyogan Library, Estate Management and resident groups, a wide range of initiatives are delivered across education, health and wellbeing, youth services, culture and community development. The commitment of local volunteers and community leaders continues to make Ballyogan a welcoming, resilient and inclusive place to live.
 
Community Youth Initiative Category – Kilcross Youth Club
 
Kilcross Youth Club is a volunteer-led initiative providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for children and young people aged 4 to 25 years. The club runs regular youth activities, social events and sports programmes that encourage friendship, confidence, teamwork and wellbeing. Supported by a dedicated team of eight volunteers, the club has grown steadily over the years and continues to create positive opportunities for young people while strengthening connections within the wider community.
 
Urban Neighbourhoods and Housing Estates – dlr Estate Management County Fora
 
The County Fora is a representative body of the 12-county-wide Estate Management Fora and is made up of volunteers. Each of the 12 estates engages in the maintenance and enhancement of its natural and built environment. The Estate Management programme is a shining example of successful partnership, civic participation, and leadership in action.

The County Fora is designed as a place of discussion, debate, and decision-making on issues of common concern across the 12 estates. The County Fora shares resources and knowledge in terms of policy and good practice and provides training for volunteers. The goal of the County Fora is to encourage resident participation in planning and improving their environment now and for future generations.
 
The four nominations showcase the diversity and strength of communities across dlr and highlight the significant contribution made by volunteers, community organisations and local residents in making the county an exceptional place to live, work and visit.
 
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council wishes all four nominees the very best of luck in this year's IPB Pride of Place Awards and congratulates everyone involved for their dedication, commitment, and community spirit.