Ongar Tidy Towns Celebrates Community Credit Union Support at New Playground

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we are passionate about making our community a cleaner, greener, and more welcoming place to live. Every flower planted, every litter pick organised, and every project completed is driven by one goal – to make Ongar shine. This week, we are absolutely delighted to share some exciting news: Community Credit Union has generously supported Ongar Tidy Towns with a donation that will go directly towards helping us continue our work in the area.

To mark this fantastic partnership, we recently met with the Community Credit Union team for a photoshoot at the new Ongar playground, which is currently under construction. This playground will be an incredible addition to Ongar and Dublin 15 – a vibrant, safe, and fun space where families can spend time outdoors, children can play, and neighbours can connect. Standing together at the playground site felt like the perfect way to celebrate the collaboration between Ongar Tidy Towns and Community Credit Union.

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Building Strong Community Partnerships

Support like this doesn’t just provide funding – it builds confidence, motivation, and momentum for everything we do. The generous donation from Community Credit Union means we can continue to invest in local tidy towns projects, environmental initiatives, and community improvements that make Ongar a better place for everyone.

We often say that tidy towns is more than planting flowers and sweeping paths. It’s about creating pride of place, nurturing connections between neighbours, and building something that will last for future generations. That’s why partnerships are so important. When a community-focused organisation like Community Credit Union steps forward, it sends a clear message: we believe in this place, and we believe in the people who live here.

Community Credit Union has always been at the heart of local life, offering services and support to families and businesses across Dublin 15 and beyond. Their values of community, trust, and support align perfectly with what we do at Ongar Tidy Towns. We’re not just keeping Ongar tidy – we’re helping create a place that people are proud to call home.

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Ongar Playground – A New Chapter for Our Area

The backdrop for our photoshoot with Community Credit Union was the new Ongar playground, which is already bringing excitement to families across the area. Ongar has grown rapidly in recent years, and the addition of a safe, accessible, and modern playground is something we know the community has been looking forward to for a long time.

Playgrounds are more than just swings and slides. They are spaces where children develop skills, families make memories, and neighbours meet. Having this new playground in Ongar will bring people together, encourage outdoor play, and give our tidy towns work even more purpose – because a well-kept, attractive community space is something we can all enjoy.

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we are already planning how we can complement the playground with planting, landscaping, and ongoing care to ensure it looks its best all year round. With support from Community Credit Union, these plans will become a reality sooner, and the results will benefit everyone in our community.

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Why Community Support Matters

One of the most rewarding parts of being involved in Ongar Tidy Towns is seeing the power of community spirit in action. Every time a volunteer joins a litter pick, every time a local business donates materials or sponsorship, and every time residents cheer us on, we are reminded that Ongar is full of people who care.

The donation from Community Credit Union is another example of how local organisations can make a big difference. This kind of support allows us to:

• Invest in seasonal planting projects that brighten up Ongar village and surrounding estates.

• Continue organising regular clean-up days to tackle litter and maintain our public spaces.

• Support the development of biodiversity initiatives, such as wildflower planting and pollinator-friendly areas.

• Enhance public spaces like parks, walkways, and community facilities so that they are welcoming and well cared for.

• Raise awareness about the importance of sustainability, recycling, and community pride.

Without partners like Community Credit Union, these projects would be much harder to achieve. Their support reminds us that tidy towns is a collective effort – when residents, businesses, and community organisations come together, we can make Ongar a model of what local pride can accomplish.

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A Heartfelt Thank You

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Community Credit Union for their generosity, encouragement, and belief in Ongar Tidy Towns. Meeting them at the new playground was a wonderful experience, and we are excited about the future possibilities this partnership brings.

We know that many people in Ongar are already members of Community Credit Union and rely on their services. Their ongoing investment back into the community shows that they are not just a financial institution, but a partner in building a stronger, more connected place for us all.

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Looking Ahead

The journey doesn’t stop here. Ongar Tidy Towns has many projects lined up for the coming months, from seasonal planting to clean-up campaigns and biodiversity initiatives. We will also be working closely with Fingal County Council and local groups to ensure the new playground becomes a centrepiece of pride for our area.

With the continued support of organisations like Community Credit Union – and the incredible volunteers and residents who give their time and energy – we know that Ongar will continue to thrive.

We invite everyone in the community to get involved with Ongar Tidy Towns. Whether you can give a few hours to help with a project, join us for a litter pick, or simply spread the word about what we do, every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can make Ongar one of the cleanest, greenest, and friendliest areas in Dublin 15.

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Conclusion – Growing Stronger Together

The support we have received from Community Credit Union is about more than money. It’s about building a relationship, sharing values, and working together to create a brighter future for Ongar. Standing together at the site of the new playground reminded us of what tidy towns is all about: community, collaboration, and pride of place.

As Ongar continues to grow and evolve, Ongar Tidy Towns will remain dedicated to ensuring that our community is looked after, loved, and celebrated. With partners like Community Credit Union by our side, the future looks very bright indeed.

✨ Once again, a sincere thank you to Community Credit Union for believing in us and supporting Ongar Tidy Towns. We are proud to call you a partner in making Ongar the very best it can be.

 

A New Playground for Ongar – Building a Brighter Future

There is a real sense of excitement in Ongar at the moment as work begins on a brand-new playground for our community. For years, families have wished for more safe and fun spaces for children to play, and now, that dream is becoming a reality. The new playground is not just about swings and slides; it represents an important step forward in making Ongar a more welcoming, inclusive, and family-friendly place to live.

Why a Playground Matters

Playgrounds are often thought of as simple spaces for children, but in reality, they bring so much more to a community. For children, they offer a safe environment to run, climb, and explore. Outdoor play supports both physical health and mental wellbeing, helping young people to build social skills, confidence, and friendships. In a world where screens so often dominate, having a safe and engaging outdoor space encourages children to get fresh air and exercise.

For parents and families, playgrounds provide a much-needed meeting point. They become places where neighbours get to know each other, where conversations spark between parents, and where community bonds strengthen. Playgrounds also add to the identity of an area. They are a visible sign of investment, care, and forward planning – a space that shows the community is valued and growing.

The Vision for Ongar’s Playground

This new project will deliver a modern playground designed with safety, inclusivity, and sustainability in mind. From the plans we’ve seen, the playground will include:

• A wide variety of play equipment suitable for different age groups, from toddlers to older children.

• Inclusive features so that children of all abilities can take part in the fun. This is a key aspect, as play should be for everyone.

• Durable, eco-friendly materials that will ensure the equipment lasts while also reducing environmental impact.

• Plenty of green landscaping, meaning the playground will not just be fun but also beautiful, fitting seamlessly into Ongar’s wider tidy towns vision.

As part of Ongar Tidy Towns, we are especially pleased to see how much thought has gone into creating a space that reflects our community’s values. We are committed to making Ongar greener, cleaner, and more welcoming, and this playground project is perfectly in line with that mission.

The Benefits for Ongar

The arrival of this new playground will mean so much for the people who live here. It will:

• Give children a safe space to play away from busy roads and traffic.

• Encourage outdoor activity, which is vital for health and happiness.

• Support families, making Ongar an even more attractive place to raise children.

• Create a new meeting point for neighbours and friends, helping community spirit to thrive.

• Add value to the area, as well-maintained public spaces make Ongar a more desirable place to live.

In many ways, the playground is not just for children – it is for everyone. Even those without young families will benefit from the sense of community it brings. A lively, happy, and active space adds to the overall atmosphere of the area.

Progress and Next Steps

Construction has already started, and residents may have noticed the work being carried out on the site. Over the coming weeks, we will see the space take shape, with equipment installed and the surrounding landscape prepared.

Ongar Tidy Towns will be keeping a close eye on developments. We plan to share regular updates on our blog and Facebook page, including photographs of the work as it progresses. Once the playground is completed, we hope to mark the occasion with a community celebration. After all, this project belongs to everyone in Ongar – it is something we can all be proud of.

How You Can Get Involved

This is a wonderful moment for Ongar, but it is also a reminder of how much can be achieved when a community works together. Ongar Tidy Towns is always looking for new volunteers to help keep our area looking its best. From litter picks to planting flowers, from supporting local projects to promoting sustainability, every little bit makes a difference.

If you would like to get involved, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us at Ongartidytowns@gmail.com or find us on Facebook to see our latest updates. 

Whether you have an hour a week or an hour a month, your support will help us to continue building a better Ongar for everyone.

Looking Ahead

The new playground is only one piece of Ongar’s future, but it is an important one. It represents investment in young people, in families, and in community spirit. It shows that Ongar is a place that values its residents, cares about quality of life, and is willing to invest in public spaces.

As the playground takes shape, we look forward to the day when the laughter of children fills the air, when parents meet for chats on the benches, and when neighbours come together in a shared space designed for joy. This is not just a playground – it is the heart of a growing, thriving Ongar.

Together, we are building more than play equipment. We are building memories, connections, and a brighter future.

Join Us This Sunday for an Hour of Power! 💪🗑️

 

Join Us This Sunday for an Hour of Power! 💪🗑️

Ongar residents, it's time to come together once again and show our love for our local community! This Sunday at 10:30 AM, we’re calling on all friends, neighbours, families and volunteers to join Ongar Tidy Towns for our next big Litter Pick.

Let’s meet at the Basketball Courts in Ongar Village and take part in what we like to call an Hour of Power – just 60 minutes of positive action to help make Ongar a cleaner, safer and more beautiful place to live.

It might not seem like much, but an hour really can make a world of difference. Whether it’s discarded takeaway wrappers, forgotten drink bottles, or bits of plastic hiding in the bushes – every piece of rubbish we collect is one less blight on our streets and green spaces.

Why get involved?
Because this isn’t just about picking up litter. It’s about community pride, meeting like-minded neighbours, and showing younger generations the value of looking after where we live. It's also a great way to get some fresh air, light exercise, and good craic – all while doing something amazing for Ongar.

And there’s more! Our Litter Picks are just one part of what Ongar Tidy Towns does. From fundraising projects and community planting to our anti-graffiti campaigns and public awareness drives, we’re working all year round to promote pride in our area. Every bag filled on Sunday helps our entry in the national Tidy Towns competition too – and with your help, we can make Ongar shine even brighter!

All ages are welcome – we’ll provide gloves, bags, and litter pickers. Just bring comfy shoes and a smile!

So set your alarms and gather your gang – see you this Sunday at 10:30 AM at the Basketball Courts for a feel-good Hour of Power that really matters.

Let’s keep Making Ongar a Beautiful Place to Live – one piece of litter at a time!

For any queries or to get involved in future events, drop us an email at ongartidytowns@gmail.com.

 We’d love to hear from you!

#OngarTidyTowns #HourOfPower #CommunityPride #KeepOngarBeautiful #VolunteerPower #TidyTownsIreland

New Bins Installed Beside the Dog Run – A Small Victory for a Cleaner, Greener Community! 🐶🗑️

New Bins Installed Beside the Dog Run – A Small Victory for a Cleaner, Greener Community! 🐶🗑️

We’re absolutely delighted to share some good news from our local area – new bins have finally been installed beside the dog run, thanks to the continued support and action from Fingal County Council. For many dog owners and park visitors, this has been a long-awaited addition, and we couldn't be happier to see it in place.

The dog run has always been a popular and well-used feature of our community. It’s a place where dogs can enjoy a bit of freedom, and owners can connect and chat in a safe, open space. However, without a nearby bin, it often meant carrying waste bags a long way or worse—waste left behind.

With the new bins now in place, we expect to see a noticeable improvement in cleanliness and hygiene around the area. This isn’t just a win for dog lovers—it's a win for the entire community, promoting a cleaner and more responsible environment for all park users.

We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Fingal County Council for responding to requests and ensuring that public spaces are being properly maintained. Credit also goes to our active local residents who consistently report issues, propose improvements, and work together through community groups like Ongar Tidy Towns.

Let’s continue to take pride in our shared spaces by using the new bins responsibly, picking up after our pets, and encouraging others to do the same. Small actions really do make a big difference.

Here’s to many more positive changes around Ongar and beyond!

#FingalCountyCouncil #OngarTidyTowns #CleanCommunity #DogFriendlySpaces #GreenerFuture #CommunityMatters #LocalWins #TidyTownsIreland

We applied for funding and it's been awarded

We applied for funding and it's been awarded

Ongar Tidy Towns – Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Initiative

Ongar Tidy Towns is launching an enhanced Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Initiative to protect and uplift our village environment. This initiative combines regular community clean-ups, targeted prevention strategies, and public education to address ongoing litter and graffiti issues, while promoting a sense of shared responsibility and civic pride.

We organise monthly litter picks involving volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. These events bring together residents, families, youth groups, and schools in a joint effort to keep Ongar clean. To support and expand these efforts, we plan to purchase a litter dust-cart – a mobile cart that will help us collect and transport rubbish more efficiently. This will allow our teams to cover larger areas during clean-ups while reducing physical strain on volunteers.

Educational outreach is central to our approach. Through collaboration with local schools, we will deliver anti-litter lessons, environmental workshops, and competitions. Students will create posters and awareness messages that will be displayed in public areas and on social media. This youth-led advocacy helps create positive habits and builds a strong foundation for long-term environmental stewardship.

 

Graffiti Management Approach

While Ongar Tidy Towns will not undertake graffiti removal directly due to material restrictions, we will actively support Fingal County Council’s efforts by promptly reporting all incidents. Volunteers will monitor known hotspots during clean-ups and submit detailed reports with photos and locations to aid swift removal. Where appropriate, we will work with local artists and youth groups to propose mural projects that discourage tagging and encourage community pride. We are committed to lasting change through teamwork, education, and practical solutions that make Ongar a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming place for all.

Greener Together:

Greener Together: How Ongar Residents Are Creating a Cleaner Community

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we believe that small actions can lead to big change. Over the past few months, we've seen a remarkable rise in local pride and environmental awareness, all thanks to the growing number of residents stepping up to make a difference. Whether it’s picking up litter, planting pollinator-friendly flowers, or reporting illegal dumping, our community is becoming a cleaner, greener place to live—together.

The recent community clean-up days have seen strong participation from families, youth groups, and local businesses. It's heartening to witness people of all ages uniting to tidy up our green spaces, playgrounds, and footpaths. With gloves on and litter pickers in hand, our volunteers are helping to restore the beauty of Ongar one bag at a time.

We’ve also partnered with Fingal County Council to ensure proper disposal of waste and to raise awareness about recycling and waste reduction. Thanks to this partnership, we now have clearer signage around recycling points and more accessible bins placed in high-traffic areas.

Gardening initiatives have also blossomed this spring. The Ongar Pollinator Project—launched earlier this year—has led to the planting of native wildflowers and bee-friendly shrubs in key locations. Not only do these projects add colour and life to our neighbourhood, but they also support biodiversity and strengthen our local ecosystems.

As we move into summer, we encourage all residents to get involved. Whether it's joining our monthly clean-up, reporting graffiti, or simply making the choice to recycle at home, every effort matters. Together, we are shaping Ongar into a model suburb for sustainable urban living.

If you'd like to volunteer, donate materials, or suggest a project idea, please reach out through our social media or contact page. Let’s keep Ongar beautiful for today and for future generations.

#OngarTidyTowns #KeepOngarBeautiful #CommunityCleanup #GreenOngar #SustainableLiving #FingalPride #PollinatorFriendly #EcoOngar #LoveWhereYouLive

Litter Picking in Ongar: A Call for More Bins and Better Habits

 

This morning, our dedicated Ongar Tidy Towns volunteers were back out doing what we do best—working hard to keep our community clean and beautiful. While we always enjoy coming together and making a difference, today's litter pick raised some ongoing concerns that we feel need to be addressed.

One of the most pressing issues we noticed is the continuing problem of illegal dumping. Since the council moved the public bins from their original locations, we’ve observed a worrying trend: people are still dumping rubbish in the exact same spots where the bins used to be. It’s as if the habit of dropping waste there hasn’t changed—only now, there’s no bin to collect it, so the area looks worse than ever.

We believe this clearly shows a need for more bins, not fewer. Strategically placed bins in high-traffic areas help encourage responsible disposal of waste. Without them, it’s only natural that rubbish builds up, which leads to not only an eyesore but also an invitation for further dumping. It sends the wrong message about the kind of community we want Ongar to be.

Today’s litter pick took us around Ongar Playground, one of the most popular and well-loved parts of our neighbourhood. Sadly, we found a significant amount of litter, including old shopping bags, discarded coffee cups, wrappers, and bits of broken packaging. Some of it had blown into the bushes, while other rubbish was left right by the benches and playground equipment. This isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s also a safety concern for children and families who use the space every day.

We’re calling on local residents to please be mindful of where you leave your waste. If there isn’t a bin nearby, take it home. Better yet, if you see litter, pick it up. These small actions really do make a big difference.

To the local authorities, we respectfully urge you to review the decision to remove or relocate the bins. Let’s look at installing additional bins in key areas like near bus stops, shops, and public parks where rubbish tends to collect. A cleaner Ongar is a shared responsibility, but we need the right infrastructure in place to support good behaviour.

To everyone who came out today—thank you. Your time and effort are what keep Ongar looking its best. We’ll be back out again soon, and we encourage anyone who wants to get involved to join us.

Let’s work together to make litter a thing of the past in Ongar!

#OngarTidyTowns #LoveWhereYouLive #LitterFreeOngar #Dublin15 #CommunityCleanUp #OngarPlayground #StopIllegalDumping #MoreBinsPlease #TidyTownsIreland #KeepOngarClean #LocalHeroes #VolunteeringMatters

Car Park Clean-Up at Dunnes Stores – Thank You!

 

Car Park Clean-Up at Dunnes Stores – Thank You!

This week, we’re shining a spotlight on the successful clean-up at the Dunnes Stores car park in Ongar, and we’d like to extend a big thank you to the management company responsible for acting so quickly once we raised the issue.

Last week, several concerned residents alerted Ongar Tidy Towns about a growing litter issue around the car park near Dunnes Stores. Overflowing bins, loose packaging, discarded coffee cups, and food wrappers were blowing across the parking spaces, creating an unsightly and potentially hazardous environment for shoppers and visitors.

As a community group committed to maintaining a clean and welcoming Ongar, we reached out directly to the property management team for the retail area. To their credit, they responded within 24 hours. On-site staff arrived promptly with cleaning equipment and removed all the scattered waste. The bins were also emptied and secured to prevent future overflow.

This is a great example of how communication and collaboration between community volunteers and local stakeholders can bring about positive, visible change. The clean-up not only restored a cleaner look to a central shopping hub but also reinforced the importance of shared responsibility in keeping Ongar tidy.

We encourage residents to continue reporting litter issues. Whether it’s near retail outlets, in public parks, or on residential streets, the quicker we act, the easier it is to prevent rubbish from piling up or blowing into nearby green spaces.

Let’s all keep in mind:

• Use bins provided, and if they’re full, take your rubbish home.

• Don’t leave bags or boxes beside bins—they attract pests and wildlife.

• If you see consistent issues, don’t hesitate to report them to Ongar Tidy Towns or directly to Fingal County Council or management companies.

We’re stronger when we work together. Thank you again to the management team at Dunnes Stores, the residents who raised the alarm, and all those who regularly take the time to pick up a stray wrapper or two.

We’ll continue to keep lines of communication open with local businesses to ensure Ongar remains a safe, clean, and attractive place to shop, walk, and enjoy.

#CleanCarPark #OngarRetailCare #ThankYouDunnes #CommunityCleanUp #OngarTidyTowns #LitterFreeOngar #Dublin15 #TidyTogether

Massive Thank You for Ongar Playground Clean-Up!

 

Massive Thank You for Ongar Playground Clean-Up!

This week we want to give a huge thank you to our community members who brought a local issue to our attention and to the incredible Park Ranger from Fingal County Council who swiftly stepped in to help clean it up.

Last weekend, someone dumped multiple black sacks of rubbish near the bin at Ongar Playground. Unfortunately, birds and wildlife pecked the bags open overnight, scattering litter all over the park—including plastic wrappers, leftover food, and sharp items. It was a heartbreaking and frustrating sight, especially for families visiting the area.

Thankfully, early Monday morning, a vigilant resident emailed Ongar Tidy Towns, and we immediately raised the issue with Fingal County Council. We’re thrilled to report that the Park Ranger arrived within hours, assessed the scene, and quickly and professionally cleaned up all the waste.

This act was more than just a tidy-up—it was an effort to protect our local children, our wildlife, and our community pride. Our public spaces are at the heart of Ongar life, and the council’s rapid response meant families could return to enjoying the playground safely and cleanly.

We want to also thank our community members who reported the incident and everyone who continues to speak up when they see fly-tipping or inappropriate waste disposal. This is what community is all about—looking after one another and our shared environment.

Let’s take this moment to remind everyone:

• Please dispose of waste responsibly.

• If a bin is full, don’t leave bags beside it.

• Report dumping to Fingal County Council or Ongar Tidy Towns.

• Encourage your children and neighbours to take pride in our green spaces.

Moving forward, we’ll continue to work closely with the Council to monitor hotspots and advocate for better signage and surveillance. We’re also exploring options for hosting an awareness day about illegal dumping and how we can all help reduce it.

Thank you once again to the Park Ranger and the fantastic team at Fingal County Council. And thank you to YOU—our amazing Ongar community—for your eyes, your voices, and your care.

#ThankYouFCC #OngarPlayground #ParkRangerHeroes #CleanOngar #CommunityPride #NoMoreDumping #OngarTidyTowns #Dublin15

Positive Changes in Our Community: Fingal County Council Acts on Bin Replacement and Graffiti Removal

It’s great to see positive action happening around our community! Fingal County Council has recently stepped in to replace the damaged bin outside our local school, ensuring that the area remains clean and encourages proper waste disposal.

At the same time, the Council also tackled graffiti in another part of the community, removing unsightly tags that had been affecting the appearance of our shared spaces. While the graffiti wasn’t at the school itself, it’s fantastic to see these issues being addressed across different parts of our area.

These improvements help create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for all of us, especially for the children, parents, and teachers around the school who rely on these spaces every day.

We’d like to thank Fingal County Council for their fast response and ongoing commitment to keeping our public spaces clean and well-maintained. It’s a great reminder that when the community raises concerns, positive changes can happen.

Let’s all continue to play our part in keeping the area litter-free and reporting any issues when they arise. Together, we can make our neighbourhood an even better place to live and learn.

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Social Media Caption:

Big thanks to Fingal County Council for replacing the damaged bin outside our local school and removing graffiti elsewhere in the community. Small changes make a big difference! Let’s keep our neighbourhood clean and welcoming for all.
Read more on our blog!

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Hashtags:

#FingalCountyCouncil
#CommunityCleanup
#TidyTowns
#PrideInOurPlace
#LitterFree
#WorkingTogether
#PositiveChange
#CleanCommunity
#OngarD15
#LocalAction

New poster campaign

 

New poster

Join Our Ongar Tidy Towns Volunteer Team!

Role: Community Support & Environmental Volunteer

Location: Ongar, Dublin 15

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Make a Difference in Your Community!

Ongar Tidy Towns is looking for passionate, community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team. If you love Ongar and want to help keep it clean, green, and beautiful, this is your chance to get involved!

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Volunteer Responsibilities:

• Social Media Support:

  • Help us create fun, positive posts to share our clean-up days, tree planting, and local wins!

  • Engage with our lovely online community and help spread the word.

• Keep Ongar Clean:

  • Get involved in litter picking and community clean-up events. Every little helps!

  • Help spot and report illegal dumping or graffiti in our area to the council.

• Tree Planting & Biodiversity Projects:

  • Join us for tree planting and pollinator-friendly planting days. Let's green up Ongar together!

• General Help:

  • Help with small admin tasks like keeping records, counting funds raised, or supporting grant applications.

  • Support your fellow volunteers, make new friends, and have some laughs along the way.

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What You’ll Need:

• A big smile and a passion for making Ongar even better

• A few hours of your time when you can spare it

• Basic phone or social media skills (optional but helpful!)

• Willingness to get stuck in – from litter picking to helping with local events

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Join us today – let’s keep Ongar clean, green, and community proud!

Interested?

Pop us a message on our social media or email us at 

Ongartidytowns@gmail.com 

Street Fest on Sunday 25th of May, come join us!

 

Street Fest on Sunday 25th of May, come join us!

Ongar Tidy Towns new poster

 

Ongar Tidy Towns

 

Ongar in Bloom: How You Can Help Beautify Our Public Spaces

 

Ongar in Bloom: How You Can Help Beautify Our Public Spaces

Spring is here, and Ongar is blooming beautifully! But behind the daffodils and hanging baskets is a dedicated team of residents making it all happen.

Our “Adopt-a-Bed” scheme invites individuals, families, or businesses to care for a small green area. It could be a flower bed near the bus stop, a planter beside the community centre, or a strip along a laneway. We provide support, advice, and sometimes even plants—just bring your enthusiasm.

Even apartment balconies or small front gardens can make a visual impact. A pop of colour goes a long way in building pride and community spirit.

We’ve recently partnered with local schools for student-led planting projects, and we’re planning to expand with mini garden competitions this summer. If you're a green-fingered guru—or just curious—this is a great way to get involved.

🌸 Ongar in Bloom is more than a campaign. It’s a celebration of colour, community, and care.

#OngarInBloom #GreenSpacesMatter #PlantLocalGrowLocal #BrightenOngar #UrbanGardening #TidyTowns #FlowerPowerDublin15

Meet Your Ongar Neighbour: Volunteer Spotlight on Mary

 

Meet Your Ongar Neighbour: Volunteer Spotlight on Mary

Behind every tidy street and blooming planter in Ongar, there’s a volunteer like Mary  A community stalwart, Mary joined Ongar Tidy Towns in 2005 and has been leading the charge ever since.

Whether she’s planting daffodils on Main Street or coordinating a Saturday clean-up, Mary does it with a smile. “I love where I live,” she says. “If we don’t look after it, who will?”

Mary also helps run our “Neighbour to Neighbour” initiative—connecting residents who need help maintaining their gardens or disposing of green waste. Her favourite part? “Seeing people stop to say thanks or picking up litter without being asked. That’s real community.”

Volunteers like Mary remind us that we don’t need big budgets or grand gestures—just people willing to lend a hand.

Want to meet others like Mary? Join us for our next community event or clean-up day.

💚 Because when one person cares, it starts a chain reaction.

#VolunteerHero #OngarTidyTowns #NeighbourhoodChampions #CommunityFirst #Dublin15Pride #LocalLegends #MaryFromOngar

From Waste to Wonder: Recycling Tips for a Cleaner Ongar

 

From Waste to Wonder: Recycling Tips for a Cleaner Ongar

Recycling should be second nature—but even the most well-meaning households sometimes get it wrong. In Ongar, we’re working to change that with better information and easy-to-follow tips for proper recycling.

First things first: yes, you can recycle soft plastics now! Just make sure they're clean and dry. Contamination is the number one reason recyclables get rejected at sorting facilities.

Second: rinse your containers. It only takes a moment but makes a massive difference to the effectiveness of recycling plants. And third: don’t forget about reuse—turn glass jars into storage containers or old t-shirts into cleaning rags.

Beyond the home, we’re advocating for clearer signage at public bins and hosting workshops on “creative reuse” with local schools. Reuse doesn’t just help the environment—it can be fun and inspiring too.

And remember, MyWaste.ie has an excellent guide to recycling in Ireland. When in doubt, look it up.

♻️ Let’s reduce, reuse, and recycle our way to a cleaner Ongar.

#RecycleRight #CleanerOngar #MyWasteTips #SustainableLiving #TidyTowns #EcoOngar #ReuseReinventReduce #ZeroWasteDublin15

Ongar Youth Power: How Local Teens Are Leading the Environmental Charge

 

 Ongar Youth Power: How Local Teens Are Leading the Environmental Charge

In Ongar, our youth are taking action for the planet—and we couldn’t be prouder. Whether it’s organising clean-ups, starting composting campaigns in school, or building bug hotels, young people in Dublin 15 are making a real difference.

A group of students from a local secondary school recently launched a Pollinator Pathways project, identifying safe habitats for bees and planting wildflowers across the neighbourhood. Others have been making eco-education videos and designing posters for our noticeboards.

That’s why we’re launching the Eco-Leaders Programme, offering workshops, mentoring, and support for youth-led environmental ideas. Whether it’s a project to clean up the Royal Canal, recycle school lunches better, or organise a “Green Week,” we want to hear from the next generation.

Young people bring creativity, energy, and fresh ideas. All they need is support—and that’s where Ongar Tidy Towns comes in.

If you’re a student or a teacher interested in taking part, email us or message us on social. The planet needs young champions. And they’re right here in Ongar.

🌱 Let’s grow the next generation of eco-leaders together.

#YouthForChange #EcoLeadersOngar #GreenFuture #TidyTownsYouth #SustainableOngar #OngarYoungVoices #OngarEcoHeroes

Greener Streets, Healthier Lives: Why Native Trees Matter in Ongar

 

Greener Streets, Healthier Lives: Why Native Trees Matter in Ongar

In Ongar, trees aren’t just lovely to look at—they’re crucial to our community’s health and future. Native trees like birch, rowan, and hawthorn not only bring seasonal colour but also support local wildlife. Birds nest in their branches, bees buzz around their flowers, and small mammals use them for shelter.

By planting native species, we help preserve biodiversity and combat climate change—right here in Dublin 15. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, reduce stormwater runoff, and even help cool our streets on hot summer days.

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we’ve planted dozens of native trees in public green spaces with help from residents, schools, and Fingal County Council. It’s a small act with big results.

We’re encouraging more residents to plant trees in their gardens or join our upcoming planting days. If you're unsure which tree to choose, we can help! Native species are hardy, low maintenance, and perfectly suited to Ireland’s climate.

Together, we can turn Ongar into one of Dublin’s leafiest and most beautiful suburbs—one sapling at a time.

🌳 Want to help green our streets? Keep an eye on our social media for the next planting day or contact us to get involved.

#OngarGreenFuture #PlantNativeTrees #UrbanForestOngar #TidyTowns #LoveWhereYouLive #OngarCommunity #Dublin15Trees

Simple Recycling Tips to Help Ongar Stay Green

 

Simple Recycling Tips to Help Ongar Stay Green

Recycling might seem straightforward, but confusion around what goes where often leads to contaminated bins — which can send otherwise recyclable materials to landfill. Let’s clear the air and help make Ongar a shining example of proper waste management.

The Basics

• Green Bin: Paper, cardboard, tins, cans, plastic bottles, and cartons.

• Brown Bin: Food scraps, garden waste, tea bags.

• Black Bin: General waste — everything that can’t be recycled or composted.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Pizza boxes with grease go in the brown or black bin — not the green one!

• Rinse your plastics and tins to avoid contamination.

• Don’t bag your recycling — loose items only.

Eco-Tips to Go the Extra Mile

• Use a compost bin to cut down on brown bin waste.

• Bring old clothes to charity shops or textile recycling banks.

• Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.

Join a Recycling Workshop
We’re planning workshops to help residents sort smarter — stay tuned on our Facebook page.

By following these easy tips, you’re doing your part to reduce waste and protect the environment. Little actions = big impact!

Inspiring Ongar’s Youth: Young People Leading the Way

 

Inspiring Ongar’s Youth: Young People Leading the Way

Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders — and in Ongar, they’re already making a difference. One of our goals at Ongar Tidy Towns is to engage young people in community and environmental efforts, and the results so far have been nothing short of inspiring.

Why Youth Involvement Matters
Engaging with young people early fosters a lifelong commitment to environmental responsibility. It builds character, develops leadership skills, and strengthens our community bonds.

School Partnerships
We’ve teamed up with local schools to offer hands-on learning experiences. Students participate in litter picks, biodiversity projects, and creative competitions like poster-making and eco-art.

Youth-Led Initiatives
A recent campaign led by teenagers focused on reducing plastic waste. Their efforts included informative social media content and school presentations — and it worked! Several local shops now offer paper alternatives.

A Call to All Young Changemakers
Whether you're a student looking to complete your Gaisce award or simply want to make a difference, Ongar Tidy Towns is the perfect platform to start your journey.

Boosting Biodiversity in Your Ongar Garden

 

Boosting Biodiversity in Your Ongar Garden

Ongar may be a thriving suburban community, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a slice of nature right outside our doors. In fact, your garden can be a powerful tool in helping boost biodiversity — a term that simply means the variety of life in a particular area. From pollinators like bees and butterflies to native plants and birds, small actions by homeowners can add up to a big impact on our local environment.

Why Biodiversity Matters
Healthy ecosystems help regulate our climate, clean our air, and pollinate our crops. Urban and suburban areas like Ongar can sometimes seem devoid of wildlife, but the good news is that even a modest garden can help support local biodiversity.

Tips to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

• Plant Native Species: Native plants are adapted to our climate and support local insects and animals. Consider Irish wildflowers like oxeye daisies, red clover, and meadow buttercups.

• Avoid Pesticides: They may kill pests, but they also harm beneficial insects. Try natural alternatives or simply let nature balance itself out.

• Add a Water Source: A small pond or even a shallow birdbath can make your garden a magnet for birds, bees, and frogs.

• Leave Some “Mess”: A log pile or a small area of long grass offers shelter and breeding ground for insects and small mammals.

Get the Kids Involved
Building a bug hotel or planting wildflower seeds can be a fun and educational family activity. It helps kids connect with nature and understand the importance of conservation.

By turning our private gardens into biodiversity havens, we can collectively make a huge difference in preserving the natural world — right here in Ongar.

The Heart of the Community: Ongar's Local Heroes and Volunteers

The Heart of the Community: Ongar's Local Heroes and Volunteers”

Introduction: Behind every beautiful green space in Ongar lies the effort of dedicated volunteers. This blog celebrates the people who roll up their sleeves, pick up litter, plant trees, and bring our neighbourhood to life—our local heroes.

A Day in the Life of a Volunteer: Follow the daily routine of a fictional or real volunteer. Include tasks like setting up clean-up days, checking flowerbeds, reporting illegal dumping, and chatting with residents. Paint a vivid picture of what these quiet heroes do.

Meet the Team: Introduce key members of Ongar Tidy Towns—everyone from long-time legends to brand-new helpers. Highlight a diverse mix of people: students, retirees, families, and professionals who give their time and passion.

Community Events: Recount recent events like the dog run launch, spring clean-ups, or nature walks. Mention how they were organised and what impact they had on the area.

Why We Volunteer: Include short quotes or testimonials from volunteers explaining why they get involved. “It’s good for the soul.” “I want my kids to grow up in a clean area.” “I met my best friends planting trees!”

Challenges Faced: Be honest about the struggles—burnout, lack of funding, or low turnout. Then explain how the group supports one another, recruits new help, and keeps the energy going.

Join the Movement: Explain how new volunteers can join, what kind of help is needed (social media, gardening, cleaning, admin), and the benefits of being part of a vibrant community group.

Closing Call-to-Action: 👉 Feeling inspired? Lend your hands or donate today at iDonate. Every act of kindness adds up!

Hashtags:
#OngarTidyTowns #VolunteerDublin15 #LocalLegends #CleanGreenCommunity #SupportLocalHeroes #TeamOngar #DublinTidyTowns

Growing Greener Together: How Ongar is Leading the Way in Urban Gardening

Growing Greener Together: How Ongar is Leading the Way in Urban Gardening

Introduction: Urban gardening isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformative movement. In Ongar, Dublin 15, the Tidy Towns group and local residents are coming together to turn grey spaces green. From balcony herb pots to shared allotments, this blog explores how Ongar is blooming in the heart of the city.

The Rise of Urban Gardening in Ongar: Discuss how urban gardening became a key part of the Ongar Tidy Towns initiatives. Highlight local residents who’ve adopted small garden beds, window boxes, and vertical planters. Mention any public spaces that have been rejuvenated with community flower beds or pollinator-friendly plants.

Benefits Beyond Beauty: Explain how urban gardening contributes to biodiversity, air quality, mental health, and a stronger sense of community. Include quotes from residents or volunteers who’ve noticed positive changes.

The Ongar Community Allotment Project: Detail the creation of a shared allotment or community garden space (real or proposed). Describe how it functions, who manages it, and how locals can get involved.

Workshops and Education: Share upcoming or past events like composting workshops, seed swaps, or garden tours organised by Ongar Tidy Towns. Emphasis the educational impact on children and families.

Challenges and Solutions: Address urban space limitations, vandalism, or weather challenges, and explain how the community overcame them through creative thinking and resilience.

Get Involved: Invite readers to contribute by volunteering, donating, or simply planting their own mini-garden.

Closing Call-to-Action: 👉 Support our greening efforts—donate today via iDonate! Every euro helps grow a greener future.

Hashtags:
#OngarBlooms #UrbanGardening #GreenDublin #CommunityInBloom #TidyTownsIreland #GrowLocal #SupportOngarTidyTowns

Sarah from Clonsilla: From First-Time Buyer to Local Star

 

Sarah from Clonsilla: From First-Time Buyer to Local Star

When Sarah-Lianne Byrne first received the news that she had been approved for a home through the Affordable Housing Scheme in Clonsilla, she thought it would be a fresh start — a chance to finally leave the chaos of renting behind and step into something more permanent. What she didn’t expect was to become a beloved figure in her neighborhood, with a reputation for hard work, positivity, and that unmistakable warmth that makes a community feel like home.

Now, less than a year after moving into her modest yet modern two-bedroom house in the heart of Ongar, Sarah has become something of a local celebrity. She didn’t set out to be, of course. But when you pour your heart into your work, give back to the community, and have a ginger cat named Mr. Jinx who insists on photobombing every local event, fame has a funny way of finding you.

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A Career That Travels Well

Sarah works as a graphic designer, and even before her move to Clonsilla, she had built a solid reputation in Dublin for her sharp visual instincts and her ability to turn even the most boring spreadsheet into a work of art. When she relocated, she brought her laptop, creativity, and client list with her — but what she didn’t expect was how quickly her services would be in demand locally.

“I started off just helping a neighbor rebrand their small cleaning business,” Sarah recalls. “Word spread after that. Before I knew it, I was designing posters for local events, menus for cafés, and even social media graphics for community clubs.”

Her work is now displayed on nearly every noticeboard in Ongar and Clonsilla — clean, modern, colorful designs that somehow reflect the personality of the area itself. But beyond her professional skill, what really sets Sarah apart is her generosity. She’s known for offering discounts to local entrepreneurs, volunteering her services for fundraisers, and mentoring students from nearby secondary schools who are interested in design.

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Mr. Jinx, the Unofficial Mascot of Ongar

No story about Sarah would be complete without mentioning her cat, Mr. Jinx. A fluffy orange tabby with a sharp stare and an attitude that suggests he believes the world revolves around him, Mr. Jinx has become a local icon.

“He shows up at the community centre nearly every Thursday, just sits outside like he’s waiting for someone,” says Claire, a local yoga instructor. “He’s got that look — like he knows he’s the main character.”

Mr. Jinx has appeared in multiple Instagram stories, community Facebook posts, and even made it onto a Christmas card sold at the Ongar Market, all thanks to Sarah’s playful photos and witty captions.

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Making an Economic Difference

Sarah’s presence in Clonsilla has been more than just social — it’s had a real economic impact. She’s helped five local businesses launch or rebrand in the last year, and three of them reported increased foot traffic and sales since working with her. From the Ongar bakery’s cheerful window decals to the signage at the newly opened fitness studio, Sarah’s creative fingerprints are everywhere.

One business owner, Damien O’Reilly of “Fix It Fast Mobile Repairs,” credits Sarah with turning his part-time hustle into a full-time success. “I had the skills, but no idea how to present myself professionally,” he says. “Sarah didn’t just make me a logo — she gave my business an identity.”

And she does it all while maintaining a full-time remote job for a tech startup based in Berlin. Her ability to balance work, community, and personal life has become a quiet inspiration to many, especially young women in the area who look to her as a role model.

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More Than a Home

Sarah often says that moving to Clonsilla was never just about getting a house — it was about getting a life. “I didn’t realise how important it was to feel like you belong somewhere,” she explains. “For years, I was moving from apartment to apartment, living with strangers, always packing boxes. This place gave me roots.”

Her garden — once a patch of patchy grass — is now a peaceful haven with raised flower beds, a small herb garden, and a custom-built perch where Mr. Jinx surveys his kingdom. She’s hosted everything from quiet dinners with friends to impromptu barbecues for the neighbors, and she’s currently planning a community art day for local kids, where she’ll teach them to design their own greeting cards.

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A Symbol of Clonsilla’s Potential

Clonsilla and Ongar are growing — new housing developments are springing up, a road link to Lucan is underway, and the area is quickly becoming one of Dublin’s most exciting suburban spaces. But amidst the change, it’s people like Sarah who represent the heart of it all.

She’s the proof that affordable housing isn’t just about shelter — it’s about investing in people who give back. It’s about creating neighbourhoods where residents care, contribute, and connect. Sarah didn’t just find a home — she became part of something bigger, and Clonsilla is all the better for it.

“I still get emotional about it,” she says with a laugh. “I mean, it’s not a mansion. But it’s mine. And every time someone knocks on my door for a chat or a bit of advice, it just reinforces that this was the right move.”

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Looking Forward

As Ongar and Clonsilla continue to expand, there’s hope that many more stories like Sarah’s will unfold. New homes, new opportunities, and new connections — all built on the foundation of community and belonging.

And as for Sarah? She’s currently working on her first illustrated children’s book, loosely inspired by the adventures of a certain ginger cat. “It’s called The Nine Lives of Mr. Jinx,” she says. “Because honestly, I think he might be writing it himself at this point.”

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#SarahOfClonsilla #CommunityChampion #AffordableHousingSuccess #OngarLiving #Dublin15Pride #SupportLocal #WomenInDesign #MrJinxTheCat #IrishCreatives #ClonsillaCommunity #HomegrownTalent