The historic The Queens Pub in Dalkey is set to reopen its doors following extensive renovations and a change in ownership. Originally established in 1745, the pub temporarily closed earlier this year, just three years after being purchased by hoteliers Ray Byrne and Eoin Doyle. The new proprietors, Doherty Hospitality, plan to welcome patrons back starting tomorrow, July 16, 2023.

The renovation has been meticulous, preserving the venue’s rich heritage while introducing modern comforts. The owners emphasize a commitment to showcasing the best of Irish food, drink, and hospitality. According to Kamila, the general manager, “We’re delighted to breathe new life into The Queens. This is more than just a reopening; it’s a celebration of history, community, and the vibrant future we see for Dalkey.” The pub aims to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

The Queens Pub was listed for sale last year with an asking price of €3.95 million. The sale included planning permission for a 30-bed guest house at the rear of the property, further expanding the venue’s potential. Previous owners Tom Mulcahy, the former CEO of AIB, and his wife June had acquired the pub in 2021.

As the reopening approaches, community members and pub enthusiasts are eager to experience the revitalized space that combines its historic charm with contemporary flair. The venue is expected to attract both loyal patrons and newcomers, marking a significant milestone in Dalkey’s social landscape.

Doherty Hospitality’s vision for The Queens goes beyond mere renovations; it’s about fostering a sense of community and celebrating the pub’s storied past. The team looks forward to welcoming guests starting at midday on July 16, promising an experience that honors the legacy of this beloved establishment.

Traffic congestion in Dublin escalated on July 15, 2023, as multiple collisions compounded delays on the M50. The situation became critical as a collision occurred on the northbound side between Ballymun and the M1/M50 roundabout, blocking the hard shoulder and further impeding traffic flow.

As motorists navigated the busy roads, additional delays were reported throughout the M50. Northbound traffic was particularly congested from Dundrum all the way to Lucan. Southbound, delays stretched from the M1 onto the M50 towards Ballymun and persisted past Blanchardstown until reaching the M11.

Collision Updates and Traffic Impact

LiveDrive, a traffic reporting service, announced that the collision on the M50 northbound after Junction 4 had been cleared. However, subsequent incidents continued to affect travel times. A vehicle fire under a bridge prompted Irish Rail to suspend services between Tara St. and Connolly. Crews were dispatched to inspect the bridge and assess any potential damage.

In a further complication, another collision occurred on the M50 northbound after Junction 4, blocking lanes one and two. Even though the earlier collision on the M50 southbound at Blanchardstown had been cleared, residual delays lingered in the area.

On the N4, a collision eastbound at Liffey Valley also caused disruptions, although this incident has since been resolved.

As traffic conditions remain challenging, commuters are urged to remain vigilant and seek alternative routes when possible. LiveDrive continues to provide updates, and officials encourage anyone with traffic information to report it via email at [email protected].

For ongoing updates, drivers can tune into LiveDrive on 103.2FM or join their breaking news service on WhatsApp for real-time notifications.

BREAKING: A woman in her 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the 2009 killing of Steven O’Meara. This urgent development comes as authorities continue their investigation into the brutal crime that left the community shaken for over a decade.

Steven O’Meara, a 26-year-old father of three, was last seen alive on August 6, 2009, in the Rosehill estate of Wicklow town. His body was discovered on Christmas Eve five months later, buried in a shallow grave in isolated woods at Ballydonnell, Redcross. The identification was made through dental records and fingerprints, with the Deputy State Pathologist, Dr. Khalid Jabber, confirming that the cause of death was due to gunshot wounds resulting in internal bleeding.

According to reports, Steven was believed to have been lured to the woods to meet a man regarding a drug debt, where he was ambushed and shot. The latest arrest was made this afternoon, and the suspect is currently being held under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at a Garda station in County Wexford.

This case has seen previous convictions; Michael Dickenson was sentenced to life in prison for the murder in 2012, while Clement Byrne was convicted of manslaughter in January 2013 and received an eight-year sentence. He has since been released.

As the investigation continues under the leadership of a Senior Investigating Officer in Wexford Garda Station, the community is left to grapple with the implications of this new arrest. The emotional toll of Steven’s murder continues to affect his family and friends, who have awaited justice for many years.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.

UPDATE: A major breakthrough for housing and care in Athenry as plans for 55 social homes and a new care facility progress rapidly. The developments at Cullairbaun and Gort Mhaoilir are set to address urgent community needs, providing vital support for families and individuals with special requirements.

The ambitious project includes a 12-unit social home development alongside a 5-bed care home facility, as well as a larger 43-unit housing project equipped with 57 parking spaces. Local officials have voiced their support, with some amendments expected to enhance the projects further.

Fine Gael Councillor Peter Feeney addressed concerns regarding the developments in a recent interview, emphasizing their importance for the community. “These homes will provide crucial support to families and individuals in need, ensuring they have access to safe and affordable housing,” Feeney stated.

Both housing projects are projected for completion by the end of 2026. This timeline is critical as Athenry faces increasing pressure for social housing solutions. The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated, as the community rallies for improved living conditions.

As this story unfolds, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely. The upcoming changes promise to reshape the landscape of Athenry, fostering a more inclusive environment for all its residents.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story. The impact of these new homes and facilities will be felt across the community, making it an essential topic for discussion. Share this news to keep others informed about the positive changes coming to Athenry!