Shanganagh Community Gardens Showcases Sustainability and Community Spirit at Open Day

Shanganagh Community Gardens held its Open Day this week as part of Dublin Climate Action Week, welcoming members of the local community to celebrate the joys of gardening and community connection. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the garden, observe the various plants and vegetables being grown, and learn about the garden's activities.  The event featured a tour of the sensory garden, polytunnel and rainwater harvesting system, tool library, and community orchard. 

Cllr Jim O’Leary Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council commented:

“More than just patches of green, community gardens like Shanganagh are a direct result of the countless hours poured in by passionate individuals and groups, often amplified by the enabling role of council support. Their combined efforts in cultivating shared spaces allow genuine connections to blossom alongside the vegetables and flowers. By transforming urban landscapes into vibrant, productive gardens, these initiatives not only put fresh, local food on the table but also cultivate a stronger, healthier community and sow the seeds for a truly sustainable future for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in making this garden a welcoming and environmentally sustainable space.”

Beyond showcasing the garden, the Open Day highlighted sustainable gardening practices and the garden’s role in supporting local biodiversity and reducing food miles as part of climate initiatives.

Frank Curran, Chief Executive, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council added: 

"Community gardens offer a tangible example of local climate action.  Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is committed to supporting community gardens across the county and have included the development of Community Gardens (similar to the model in Fernhill Park) as an action in our dlr Climate Action Plan 2024-2029."

About Shanganagh Community Gardens: 

The Shanganagh Community Garden was officially launched in 2010 to encourage community members to participate in sustainable organic gardening as well as the promotion of biodiversity. One of the key aims of the garden over the last few years is to provide plots to those who wish to have individual or group growing space, as well as project space for relevant community garden projects. Shanganagh Community Garden also supports the Men’s Shed and Enable Ireland, as specific community-based projects.

If you would like to find out more about the Shanganagh Community Gardens, please contact them at scgardenscommittee@gmail.com for further information.