Community
Kenilworth Square is a diverse, closely-knit and vibrant community. The era of the 1960s to the 1980s, when it was the epicentre of Rathmines flatland, is over. The majority of houses are now owner-occupied and most have been restored to their former glory.
Residents include many professionals with young families, middle-aged empty nesters, retirees who have spent almost their entire lives living on the Square, and renters. All enjoy the spectacular beauty and tranquillity that Kenilworth Square has to offer.
Many community events bring residents in close contact with each other, such as the Annual Street Feast in May, which is a wonderful gathering and celebration of life on the Square, which is held on the street outside the park. There are also regular clean-ups by residents on each side of the Square, with the support of Dublin City Council.
We are proud of our Square and vow to protect its heritage and its unique character. It is a marvellous place to live.
Dublin City Council Recognition
In a display of community spirit, local residents come together each year (and often twice a year) to clean up the Square, maintaining it as a vibrant and welcoming space. Armed with gloves, brushes, pickers and bin bags, plus a shared determination, neighbours of all ages spend the day clearing litter and sweeping leaves. This collective effort not only revitalises the square but also strengthens the bonds within the community.
Recognising this initiative, Dublin City Council has acknowledged the strong community spirit on Kenilworth Square, praising the dedication of residents in enhancing their local environment and fostering civic pride.
Lorette Foley
Lorette Foley is the longest-residing person on Kenilworth Square. She has lived on the Square for 74 years. Born in Dun Laoghaire in 1937, she spent her first 13 years in Sandymount, often visiting her grandparents, who had moved to the east side of the Square in 1929.
In 1950 Lorette’s parents, Jerome Foley and Mamie Monaghan, moved their family to the west side of the Square and Lorette has been here ever since. She cycled or took the No 18 bus to school in Haddington Road, and she did her Leaving Cert in Rathmines Tech, excelling in English. Following a Commercial course there she worked in Accounts for many years in various Dublin businesses.
Lorette has great memories and stories of life in Kenilworth Square over the decades. For most of her life the Square was open to all living here. Like all residents, she does not agree with the current development proposals.
Lorette was always a voracious reader and a keen writer. Almost inevitably, she had a writing career – as a crime novelist in the 1970s. Her three published titles were Murder in Burgos, Dead for Danger and Bury by Night. They show real skill in plotting and excellent wit. They are available on Amazon.
