While there are still several unresolved planning issues about the way the city is growing outwards instead of consolidating within a fixed footprint the city centre itself is becoming a living, vibrant place again, restoration is a first choice decision among most developers and quality new architecture is making its own mark.

Previously derelict areas are being dramatically rehabilitated and the environment has been impressively cleaned up and, thanks to the largest waste-water treatment project being undertaken in Europe at this time, Dublin Bay, after decades of pollution, will once again be restored to Blue Flag status.

New public transport initiatives are underway, albeit rather slowly. The first on-road light rail system, the LUAS, was launched 2005 and serves Dublin's southside. The LUAS carries approximately 80,000 passengers a day. There are currently two LUAS lines, although plans are underway to extend the LUAS service by 2010.

Every city has its problems and Dublin is no different. The vibrant economy has made a difference but there are still many people who live off the social welfare system.

Crime and drugs are making their lives more difficult and these problems can and do spill over to the wider community. But even here unprecedented progress is being made.

The old and often souless housing schemes that encouraged negative social attitudes are being demolished and replaced with quality own-door developments.

Social difficulties are not new to Dublin but today there is an opportunity as never before to wipe out poverty and inequality.This is truly a unique time to live, to visit and to explore a city in change, a city that has at last discovered its own identity.

About Pat Liddy

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The above information was valid to the best knowledge available to the compiler but responsibility cannot be accepted for any unintentional inaccuracies or out of date data.