Greater Dublin Drainage Project unearths local history during archaeological investigations at Abbotstown

As preparatory works progress on the Greater Dublin Drainage (GDD) Project, archaeological investigations at the Abbotstown site are helping to uncover and preserve the area's rich history.

Specialist archaeologists along with members of the Blanchardstown and Castleknock History Society and the Clonsilla & Porterstown Heritage Society recently visited the site to view the remnants of an early medieval enclosure or ringfort which was discovered at Sheephill, Abbotstown. 

Ringforts were among the most common settlement types in early medieval Ireland and typically date from between AD 600 and 900. They served as homes and farmsteads for families, as well as enclosures for livestock, offering a valuable insight into everyday life more than a thousand years ago.

Speaking about the discovery, project archaeologist Derek Gallagher said: "Through a combination of geophysical surveys and test trenching, our team identified the remains of a circular enclosure hidden beneath the surface. Discoveries like this provide a fascinating glimpse into how people lived in this area over a thousand years ago. Archaeological investigations not only help protect our heritage, but they also create a permanent record that contributes to our understanding of the history of Abbotstown and can be shared with future generations."

Before preparatory works commenced, an archaeological excavation licence was obtained from the National Monuments Service (NMS). The licence ensures all investigations are carried out by qualified specialists using recognised professional standards and that any discoveries are properly examined, recorded, and preserved. All archaeological records and associated archival material from the excavation will be deposited with the National Monuments Service Archive and all recovered artefacts will be deposited with the National Museum of Ireland. 

Speaking about the archaeological investigations, Dermot Bruton, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: "Protecting Ireland's archaeological heritage is an important part of how we deliver major infrastructure projects responsibly. These investigations ensure that significant discoveries are carefully identified, recorded, and preserved before construction begins, while allowing this vital project to continue progressing. We are pleased that local history and heritage groups have had the opportunity to see these findings first-hand and learn more about the rich history of the area."

Reflecting on the archaeological site visit, Christine Moore from Clonsilla & Porterstown Heritage Society said: “This is a part of our history that I’m not very familiar with and it was lovely to see first-hand the work and care that is taken by the archaeologists to make sure that nothing is lost to time as part of the infrastructure project. It’s fascinating to see the hard work they go through to find the tiniest of things and bring history back to life, ensuring that it’s carefully preserved for future generations."

The Greater Dublin Drainage project is designated as critical national infrastructure under the Critical Infrastructure Act 2026. It will provide wastewater treatment capacity equivalent to a population of approximately 500,000 people and support the delivery of up to 185,000 new homes across north Dublin and surrounding parts of Meath and Kildare, while also helping to safeguard the environment and protect Dublin Bay. The project includes a regional wastewater treatment facility at Clonshaugh, an orbital sewer network, a pumping station, and a marine outfall to the Irish Sea.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services across Ireland. We are committed to investing in the critical infrastructure that enables communities to thrive, supports sustainable growth, and protects the environment for future generations.

For more information, visit our Greater Dublin Drainage Project page.