Friday, 11 April 2025

A Brief History of Ongar From Fields to a Thriving Community


A Brief History of Ongar: From Farmland to Flourishing Suburb

Ongar was once a vast stretch of open fields, forming part of the lush agricultural belt that encircled the outskirts of Dublin. Before urban development transformed the landscape, the area was mainly farmland, crisscrossed by stone walls and winding rural lanes. Locals from nearby villages such as Clonsilla and Blanchardstown would have passed through Ongar on their way elsewhere, with little reason to stop in what was then a quiet, undeveloped part of the county.

The Evolution of Ongar

The transformation began in earnest in the late 1990s and early 2000s, during a period of rapid suburban growth in Dublin. The opening of Blanchardstown Shopping Centre in 1996 marked a pivotal moment, turning the area into a hub for retail, business, and residential expansion. Ongar soon followed suit.

Urban planners envisioned Ongar as a "village-style" suburb—a self-contained community with a vibrant Main Street at its heart. This vision materialised beautifully, with a blend of local shops, cafΓ©s, green spaces, and housing developments all thoughtfully arranged to promote walkability and community interaction. Ongar today exemplifies the best in suburban design, offering both charm and convenience.

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

Ongar Today

Contemporary Ongar is a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic neighbourhood with much to offer:

  • Two Train Stations: Commuters are well served by Hansfield Station and Clonsilla Station, both offering regular service to Dublin City Centre. The area is also linked by efficient Dublin Bus routes, 39A and 39 run every few minutes 

  • Three Schools: Ongar is home to three reputable schools, providing high-quality education and making the suburb an attractive choice for families with children.

  • Community Centre: The Ongar Community Centre stands at the heart of local life, offering facilities for sports, education, social events, and more. It brings people together and strengthens the community bond.


  • A Thriving Local Economy: The bustling Main Street features a fantastic mix of local businesses, including:

    • Dunnes Stores: A reliable destination for everyday essentials, from groceries to homeware.

    • Rendezvous Restaurant: A local favourite for dining out, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu.

    • Ongar House Pub: A neighbourhood staple offering warmth, hospitality, and a great pint.

    • Hairdressers and Barbers: Multiple high-quality salons cater to every style and preference.

    • Butchers: Offering fresh, locally sourced meats with exceptional service.

    • Bakery: Home to the delightful aromas and tastes of fresh-baked breads and sweet treats.




In every sense, Ongar delivers a complete and balanced lifestyle, blending a close-knit community feel with modern amenities.

Looking Ahead

Ongar is continually evolving, always with a focus on sustainable growth and community wellbeing. Local groups such as Ongar Tidy Towns play a vital role in preserving green spaces, promoting environmental awareness, and keeping the area beautiful.

The future is bright for Ongar, as it continues to attract families, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking for a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place to call home. It’s a place where people don’t just live—they belong.

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

#OngarDublin #CommunitySpirit #ShopLocalOngar #DiscoverOngar #SupportLocal #OngarVillage #ProudOfOngar #DublinSuburbs #OngarLife #NewRootsOngar #OngarGrowingStrong

Thursday, 10 April 2025

Ongar: A Thriving Village with Heart (and Everything You Need!)

Ongar: A Lively Village with Heart (and Just About Everything!)


We at Ongar Tidy Towns are always up for bragging about everything that makes our town so wonderful — and one thing is certain: Ongar's got it all! Whether it's shops and restaurants, pampering and essentials, our village is filled to the brim with local traders that bring vitality, flavour, and a true sense of pride to our town.

As you walk through the village of Ongar, you can discover a wonderful variety of shops eager to serve you a smile:

πŸ›’ Dunnes Stores


Dunnes is the real heartbeat of shopping in Ongar. Whether you're doing the family grocery shop, getting the fresh produce, or spoiling yourself with some trendy homeware or new children's clothes, Dunnes has it covered. Its top deals and helpful staff make it a one-shop stop for busy people and families alike. And its support of Irish suppliers keeps our economy boosted too!

🍴 Meal Time
If you're in the mood for a bite or a coffee catch-up, come to Rendezvous. With its casual, inviting atmosphere and tasty fare, it's suitable for everything ranging from a casual breakfast to a catch-up lunch to meet up with a group of friends. There's plenty of choice on the menu, and the staff always bend over backwards to treat everyone like one of the family. It makes no difference if it's your first time or your one hundredth – you'll always feel at home.

🏑 Ongar House


Searching for a traditional, homely place to eat and socialise with wonderful food and a warm atmosphere? Ongar House is the place to come. It's a family-favourite — perfect for a Sunday lunch, a post-work pint, or a social meet up. Ongar House mixes traditional hospitality and tasty home-cooked meals. Their comforting meals and friendly atmosphere are why supporting the local business is so crucial.

✂️ Style 
Regardless of the look you're seeking — a new trim, a colour change, or a full-on glammu up for a night out — Ongar's outstanding hairdressers have the solution. We employ talented stylists, renowned for their creativity, expertise, and friendly, personal service. It's not just a haircut — it's a quality pampering session that leaves you invigorated, self-assured, and ready to tackle the day. Supporting a local salon supports a local artist and creativity too!

🍞 A Local Bakery


There's no place like "home" and no aroma quite like the freshly baked bread — and in Ongar, we're blessed with a bakery that fills the village air with irresistible aromas daily. From crusty loaves and buttery croissants to yummy sweets in the form of cakes, buns, and pastries, there's something to treat your senses every day. Handmade, fresh, and infused with a lot of love, our bakery provides a touch of everyday delight to our village and keeps that original, village spirit burning bright.

Ongar really has everything in place!


We’re so proud of the diversity, quality, and hospitality of the shops and services here. They’re the places we meet up with friends, celebrate our milestones, pamper ourselves, and grab the necessities of life. They’re not shops and services — they’re the heartbeat of our community.
When we choose to shop, eat, and support locally, we contribute to building a larger and better town, and everyone benefits.
Let's continue to support our local heroes — they're the ones who keep Ongar the wonderful place it currently is!

πŸ“£ Shoutout to the legends in town!

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns


Next time you come, why not mark your favourite Ongar destination and give it a shoutout?


#SupportLocal #ShopLocal #OngarVillage #OngarLife #OngarTidyTowns #ProudOfOngar #CommunitySpirit #OngarBusinesses #LoveWhereYouLive #EatLocal #BuyLocal #OngarLove #LocalLegends

 

Sunday, 6 April 2025

Ongar Cleanup A Big Thanks to Our Volunteers!


Ongar Cleanup: A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Volunteers

Today, the Ongar community came together in an inspiring display of teamwork and civic pride. Volunteers of all ages joined forces to make a real difference during our latest neighbourhood cleanup. Thanks to everyone’s hard work, we collected an impressive 15 bags of litter from the streets of Ongar, Dublin 15. From bottles and cans to general waste, every piece removed has helped make our community a cleaner, more pleasant place to live.

As we sorted through the rubbish, it became clear that littering is still a persistent issue. Items like plastic wrappers, drink containers, and even some odd finds turned up in everyday pedestrian areas. Yet, today's efforts showed what we can accomplish when we unite behind a common cause. Every small action added up to something big—and we’re so proud of everyone who took part.

This event was more than just a cleanup—it was a powerful reminder of the community spirit that defines Ongar. And while this was a major success, our work doesn’t stop here.


A Huge Thank You to Our Volunteers

To each and every volunteer who came out today—thank you. Whether you helped for an hour or stayed until the last bag was filled, your contribution mattered. Your energy and commitment were truly inspiring, and your efforts did not go unnoticed.

Not only did you help beautify the area, but you also raised awareness about the importance of protecting our shared spaces. It was heartening to see so many different faces—from long-time residents to new neighbours—all working together with a shared sense of purpose.

This spirit of volunteerism is what makes Ongar so special. It’s not just about picking up litter—it’s about nurturing pride in where we live and inspiring others to join us in creating lasting change.






Looking Ahead – Will You Join Us?

Although today’s cleanup was a great success, there’s still more work to be done. Litter doesn’t disappear on its own, and that’s why we need your help.

Why Volunteer?

  • It’s a meaningful way to give back to your community.

  • It’s a great opportunity to meet new people who care about Ongar.

  • You’ll help make our streets and parks cleaner, safer, and more beautiful.

  • And yes—it’s fun! There’s something incredibly rewarding about working side-by-side with your neighbours for a common goal.

If you missed this event, don’t worry. There will be more chances to get involved. Watch our social media channels and website for updates on upcoming cleanups.



5 Easy Ways You Can Help

  1. Join the Next Cleanup: Even an hour makes a difference. Every pair of hands counts.

  2. Donate to Ongar Tidy Towns: Financial contributions help cover supplies like gloves, bags, and safety gear. Visit our iDonate page to support the cause.

  3. Spread the Word: Share our posts, talk to your neighbours, and encourage others to get involved.

  4. Organise a Group Effort: Whether you're part of a school, company, or local club—get a team together! We’re happy to help you coordinate.

  5. Follow Us Online: Stay in the loop by following us on Facebook,  for event info and photos from the field.




Final Thoughts

Today proved just how powerful community action can be. Ongar’s residents stepped up, and the difference is visible. But this is just the beginning. Keeping our community clean requires continued effort—and with your help, we can keep building a better, greener Ongar.

Thank you once again to all our volunteers. If you couldn’t make it today, we hope to see you next time. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for everyone in Ongar.

Donate and make a difference today: Visit our iDonate page for Ongar Tidy Towns.


https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns


Click here to donate now 


#OngarTidyTowns #Ongar #KeepOngarClean #Volunteer #CommunityCleanup

Thursday, 3 April 2025

🐢 Ongar Tidy Towns: Our New Dog Run & Keeping Our Community Clean! 🏑🌳

 πŸΆ Ongar Tidy Towns: Our New Dog Run & Keeping Our Community Clean! 🏑🌳

Exciting news for all dog lovers in Ongar! Our brand-new dog run is officially open, giving our furry friends a safe and fun space to play, exercise, and socialize. Located in a beautiful green area, this dog-friendly space was created to enhance our community while promoting responsible pet ownership.

But while we celebrate this fantastic addition, we must also talk about a growing issue: dog litter.

🐾 Clean Up After Your Pup!

As responsible dog owners, it's our duty to clean up after our pets. Dog litter is not only unsightly but also a health hazard for children, other dogs, and the environment. No one likes stepping in an unexpected surprise!

Here’s how you can help keep Ongar clean:
Always carry poop bags when walking your dog.
Use the provided bins to dispose of waste properly.
Encourage others to do the same—remind fellow dog owners to pick up after their pets.
Join our clean-up days and help keep our green spaces beautiful.

πŸ• A Safer & Happier Ongar for Everyone!

We built this dog run because we care about our pets, our community, and our environment. Let’s all do our part to keep it clean and enjoyable for everyone!

πŸ’š Want to support Ongar Tidy Towns? Help us continue improving our area!

πŸ™Œ 5 Ways You Can Help Today:

1️⃣ Spread the word! Share this post with fellow dog owners.
2️⃣ Join a community clean-up event. Every extra hand makes a difference!
3️⃣ Be a responsible pet owner. Pick up after your dog, always.
4️⃣ Volunteer with us. We’re always looking for passionate people to help improve Ongar.
5️⃣ Donate to Ongar Tidy Towns – every contribution goes towards making our town better! 

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

Thank you for helping keep Ongar clean and beautiful! πŸŒΏπŸ• #OngarTidyTowns #DogRun #KeepOngarClean

Scramblers Banned in Ongar

 Scramblers Banned in Ongar – Help Keep Our Community Safe and Clean!

Ongar Tidy Towns is dedicated to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all residents. In recent years, illegal scrambler bike use has become a growing concern, causing damage to our green spaces, endangering pedestrians, and disrupting the peace of our neighborhood. We are delighted to announce that scramblers are now officially banned in Ongar, a significant step towards making our community a safer place for everyone.

Why This Ban Matters

Scramblers, while fun for off-road use, pose serious risks when driven recklessly in public spaces. The issues we've encountered include:

  • Damage to Parks and Green Spaces – Scramblers tear up grass, damage pathways, and make it difficult to maintain our local environment.

  • Noise and Disruption – The loud engines disturb the peaceful atmosphere of our neighborhood, especially in residential areas.

  • Public Safety Risks – Pedestrians, children, and cyclists are at risk when scramblers are used irresponsibly on footpaths and in parks.

Supporting a Cleaner, Safer Ongar

This ban is a victory for our community, but there is still work to be done. Ongar Tidy Towns relies on community support to continue maintaining and improving our parks, gardens, and public spaces. We need your help to restore areas damaged by scramblers, plant new greenery, and ensure that Ongar remains a beautiful place to live.

πŸ‘‰ Please consider making a donation to support our work: Donate here


https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns


What You Can Do to Help

  1. Report Violations – If you see scramblers being used illegally, report them to local authorities to ensure enforcement of the ban.

  2. Volunteer with Us – Join our team to help clean up and restore green spaces that have been affected.

  3. Donate and Share – Every contribution helps! Spread the word and encourage others to support our community initiative.

πŸ‘‰ Every little helps – donate today:

 https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns




Together, We Can Make a Difference

With the scrambler ban in place, we have a real opportunity to create a safer, greener, and more pleasant environment for everyone. Let’s work together to ensure our community remains a wonderful place to live and enjoy.

πŸ‘‰ Show your support now! Donate here: https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns




Tuesday, 1 April 2025

Join Us for Ongar’s Big Clean-Up & Tree Planting Event – April 6th, 2025!



Come Join Us for Ongar’s Big Clean-Up & Tree Planting Event – April 6, 2025!

Spring is here, and it’s time to roll up our sleeves for a cleaner, greener Ongar! The Ongar Tidy Towns team is organizing a special Community Clean-Up & Tree Planting Day on Sunday, April 6, 2025, and we want YOU to be part of it!

Event Details:

πŸ“… Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: Starts at 10:00 AM
πŸ“ Meeting Point: Ongar, Dublin 15
🎯 Activities: Litter picking, tree planting, and community gardening


https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

Why Join Us?

  • Make a Difference: Help keep Ongar clean and beautiful for everyone.

  • Support the Environment: Planting trees contributes to a greener, healthier future.

  • Meet Your Neighbours: A great opportunity to connect with like-minded locals.

  • Enjoy Fresh Air & Fun: A rewarding outdoor activity for all ages!

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes.

  • Gardening gloves (if you have them – we’ll provide extras!).

  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

All necessary tools and supplies will be provided. Plus, we’ll have refreshments and snacks for our hardworking volunteers!

Get Involved!

We’d love to see as many people as possible join us. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, this is a fantastic way to give back to your community.

πŸ‘‰ Let us know you're coming! Comment on our blog, send us a message, or just show up on the day.

Can’t make it but still want to support our efforts? Consider making a small donation to help fund future projects. Every little bit helps!

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns






Don't be an April Fool, come join us!!!!

 




Don't be an April Fool, come join us!!!!


Keeping Ongar Beautiful: Join the Ongar Tidy Towns Mission!

Ongar is more than just a place to live—it’s a community we take pride in. The Ongar Tidy Towns initiative is dedicated to keeping our neighbourhood clean, green, and welcoming for everyone. With the help of volunteers, local businesses, and generous donors, we work tirelessly to improve our surroundings and promote a sense of community pride.

Our Mission

Ongar Tidy Towns is all about enhancing the beauty of our area. From litter-picking and planting to painting and maintenance, our volunteers contribute their time and effort to make Ongar a more pleasant place to live and visit. But keeping our town tidy isn’t just about appearances—it’s about fostering a sense of shared responsibility and environmental awareness.

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

Our work aligns with the national Tidy Towns Initiative, which encourages communities across Ireland to take ownership of their local environment. By participating in this movement, we aim to not only improve the aesthetics of Ongar but also contribute to sustainability efforts, biodiversity, and climate action.

How You Can Help

We believe that everyone has a role to play in keeping Ongar clean and vibrant. Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or just someone who appreciates a well-kept community, there are many ways you can get involved:

  • Volunteer: Join our regular clean-up events and make a tangible difference in your neighborhood. Whether it's picking up litter, planting flowers, or helping with community projects, every hand makes a difference.

  • Spread the Word: Follow us on social media and encourage friends and family to support our cause. Sharing our updates and engaging with our posts helps us reach more people who care about their environment.

  • Donate: Every contribution helps us fund essential materials, tools, and projects to keep Ongar looking its best. Your donations support everything from gardening supplies to waste disposal costs. Click here to donate via iDonate!

Recent Projects

We’ve been hard at work on several exciting initiatives, including:

  • Seasonal Planting – Bringing color to our streets with fresh flowers and greenery. We focus on native plant species that support pollinators and enrich our biodiversity.

  • Community Clean-Ups – Organizing weekly litter-picking sessions to keep our area spotless. By removing waste and debris, we not only improve aesthetics but also protect local wildlife.

  • Public Space Improvements – Restoring benches, repainting fences, and maintaining green spaces. These small upgrades make a big difference in how welcoming our community feels to both residents and visitors.

  • Educational Campaigns – Hosting workshops and events to educate the community on recycling, composting, and sustainable gardening practices. Raising awareness helps us build a long-lasting culture of environmental responsibility.

  • Community Garden & Polytunnel – We are excited to introduce our new Community Garden and Polytunnel Project! This initiative aims to provide a dedicated green space where residents can grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The polytunnel will allow us to cultivate plants year-round, promoting sustainable gardening and food production while offering a relaxing and productive environment for all members of the community.

Every little effort counts, and with your help, we can achieve even more! If you’d like to support our ongoing projects, consider making a small donation today. Click here to contribute via iDonate! 

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns


Why Your Support Matters

Community-led initiatives like Ongar Tidy Towns rely heavily on volunteers and donations to keep running. Your support helps us:

  • Purchase supplies like gloves, litter pickers, and waste bags for our clean-ups.

  • Fund larger-scale projects such as tree planting, mural painting, and park enhancements.

  • Organize community engagement events that bring people together to take pride in their surroundings.

  • Advocate for better waste management and sustainability policies in Ongar.

  • Expand and maintain our Community Garden and Polytunnel, ensuring it thrives as a hub for local gardening, education, and sustainability.

  • Develop and maintain a safe and clean Dog Run, along with increasing the number of waste bins in public areas to help keep Ongar tidy.

Every euro makes a difference! No donation is too small, and every contribution brings us closer to a cleaner, greener Ongar. Donate today via iDonate!

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns

Join Us!

If you love Ongar and want to make a difference, we’d love to have you on board. Whether you have an hour to spare or want to commit regularly, your efforts will go a long way in making our community a cleaner, greener place.

We’re always looking for new volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to expand our efforts. If you or your business would like to contribute in any way, feel free to reach out to us through our blog or social media channels.

Let’s work together to keep Ongar beautiful! Want to show your support? Donate today via iDonate! Every little bit helps us continue our mission. 

https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OngarTidyTowns


Follow our journey and stay updated on upcoming events by visiting our blog: Ongar Tidy Towns Blog

Ongar Tidy Towns Celebrates Community Credit Union Support at New Playground

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