Overview of the Visit
On 18 December 2025, TU Dublin’s Grangegorman campus hosted the 358th Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam. The event marked a significant moment for the university and the surrounding community, underscoring the institution’s role as a catalyst for local development and civic engagement.
The visit began with a formal welcome from TU Dublin President Dr Deirdre Lillis, Chair of the Governing Body Gerard Howlin, Chief Operations Officer Sally Anne Sherry, and Government and Community Advocacy Lead Dr Brian Murphy. Together, they outlined the university’s vision for inclusive growth and highlighted recent campus developments.
Strengthening Community Partnerships
One of the core themes of the meeting was the partnership between TU Dublin and local stakeholders. The university has long worked with the Grangegorman Development Agency, community organisations, and public representatives to ensure that educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities benefit residents.
Collaborative Projects
During the short tour, the Lord Mayor saw several collaborative projects in action:
- Community Learning Hub: A space where students and residents can share skills, from digital literacy to entrepreneurship.
- Green Spaces Initiative: Expansion of parkland and the introduction of a community garden that supplies local food banks.
- Public Art Installations: Works by student artists that reflect the cultural diversity of Dublin.
These projects demonstrate how TU Dublin’s resources are being leveraged to create tangible benefits for the neighbourhood.
Future Engagement Plans
Both parties agreed to deepen engagement through:
- Regular town‑hall meetings to gather resident feedback.
- Joint grant applications for EU regional development funds.
- Expanded internship programmes that place students in local businesses.
These initiatives aim to foster a sense of shared ownership and long‑term prosperity.
Impact on Students and Residents
For students, the visit highlighted new opportunities for community‑based learning. TU Dublin’s curriculum increasingly integrates service‑learning modules that allow students to apply academic knowledge to real‑world challenges in Grangegorman.
Student‑Led Community Projects
Examples include:
- Urban design workshops that redesign public spaces.
- Health and wellbeing campaigns targeting local youth.
- Tech incubators that support start‑ups founded by students and residents.
These projects not only enrich the student experience but also deliver measurable benefits to the community.
Resident Benefits
Local residents gain access to:
- Free educational workshops on topics such as financial planning and digital skills.
- Cultural events hosted in university venues, including concerts and exhibitions.
- Health screenings and wellness programmes run by university staff.
By opening its doors, TU Dublin turns the campus into a hub of civic life.
Future Plans for Grangegorman
Looking ahead, TU Dublin has outlined a strategic roadmap for the Grangegorman campus that aligns with Dublin’s broader urban regeneration goals.
Infrastructure Development
Key projects include:
- Construction of a new student accommodation block with mixed‑use retail space.
- Upgrading transport links to improve accessibility for students and residents.
- Installation of smart‑city technologies to monitor energy usage and traffic flow.
Academic Expansion
The university plans to launch new programmes in:
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
- Sustainable Urban Planning.
- Digital Media and Creative Industries.
These programmes are designed to meet the evolving needs of Dublin’s economy and to attract students from across Ireland and beyond.
How to Get Involved
Community members, students, and local businesses can play an active role in shaping the future of Grangegorman. Below are actionable steps to get started.
Attend a Campus Tour
Schedule a free tour to see the latest campus developments and meet university staff. Book a tour now.
Apply for Student Scholarships
Students interested in the new programmes can apply for scholarships that support study and research. Explore scholarship options.
Join a Community Advisory Group
Residents can volunteer for advisory groups that advise on campus projects. Sign up today.
Partner with TU Dublin for Projects
Local businesses can collaborate on research or internship programmes. Learn how to partner.
Stay Informed
Subscribe to the university’s newsletter to receive updates on campus events, research breakthroughs, and community initiatives. Subscribe here.
By engaging with TU Dublin, you contribute to a vibrant, inclusive, and forward‑looking community that benefits everyone in Grangegorman and beyond.
For more information on how TU Dublin is shaping the future of Dublin, visit the university’s About the University page.
