‘Disgraceful’: Dublin 7 residents on removal of ‘Selections’ shop from derelict register

Dublin City Council has removed the former newsagent at 22a Berkeley Road in Phibsborough from its derelict sites register, sparking outrage among local residents who describe the action as “disgraceful.” The property, still known locally as “Selections,” has long stood as a symbol of urban decay, its once-vibrant facade now marred by graffiti, overgrown vegetation, and visible signs of disrepair. Despite efforts by neighbors to highlight its deteriorating condition, the council claims the site was improved through “minor” repairs, including repainting the exterior and removing graffiti, prompting its removal from the register. Residents gathered outside the building on Monday, holding a hand-stitched banner reading “Am I still derelict?” to protest the council’s decision. Sheila Ahern, a 67-year-old resident who has lived just blocks away for a decade, expressed deep disappointment. She described the property as still being in a state of neglect, with large plants growing from the roof, windows boarded up, and the basement partially exposed. “How can that happen? Nothing has been done. If anything, it’s worse,” she said, emphasizing that the building continues to stand empty and unoccupied. The council responded to inquiries from The Irish Times, stating that the property was taken off the register in March after the owners undertook basic maintenance work. A spokesperson noted that the site remains under investigation and that officials have been in contact with the owners regarding its condition. However, the council also warned that it would continue to monitor the situation and might re-enter the property onto the derelict sites register if necessary. “As with all our active files, we will continue to follow the statutory process,” they said. The building, located across from a planned MetroLink station near the Mater hospital, was listed for sale in 2024 at a guide price of €475,000. It is currently owned by three brothers, Brian, Niall, and Conor Farren, but attempts to reach them for comment were unsuccessful. Locals say the property has remained vacant for years, with no sign of imminent redevelopment despite its proximity to major infrastructure projects. For many in the neighborhood, the removal of the site from the derelict register feels like a betrayal. Amanda Hughes, who has lived nearby for nearly two decades, echoed this sentiment. She recalled that residents had previously campaigned for the property to be added to the register due to its poor condition, a request that was granted in 2023. Now, they find themselves pushing for its reinstatement. “It’s born from frustration,” Hughes said, describing the community’s sense of helplessness in the face of ongoing neglect. The situation reflects broader concerns about urban decay and the challenges faced by communities trying to hold local authorities accountable. While the council maintains that minor improvements justify the removal from the register, residents argue that such actions fall far short of addressing the underlying issues of disrepair and abandonment. As the debate continues, the fate of 22a Berkeley Road remains uncertain, with locals hoping for a future where the site becomes a thriving business rather than another symbol of urban decline.