Ongar Tidy Towns Celebrates Community Credit Union Support at New Playground

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we are passionate about making our community a cleaner, greener, and more welcoming place to live. Every flower planted, every litter pick organised, and every project completed is driven by one goal – to make Ongar shine. This week, we are absolutely delighted to share some exciting news: Community Credit Union has generously supported Ongar Tidy Towns with a donation that will go directly towards helping us continue our work in the area.

To mark this fantastic partnership, we recently met with the Community Credit Union team for a photoshoot at the new Ongar playground, which is currently under construction. This playground will be an incredible addition to Ongar and Dublin 15 – a vibrant, safe, and fun space where families can spend time outdoors, children can play, and neighbours can connect. Standing together at the playground site felt like the perfect way to celebrate the collaboration between Ongar Tidy Towns and Community Credit Union.

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Building Strong Community Partnerships

Support like this doesn’t just provide funding – it builds confidence, motivation, and momentum for everything we do. The generous donation from Community Credit Union means we can continue to invest in local tidy towns projects, environmental initiatives, and community improvements that make Ongar a better place for everyone.

We often say that tidy towns is more than planting flowers and sweeping paths. It’s about creating pride of place, nurturing connections between neighbours, and building something that will last for future generations. That’s why partnerships are so important. When a community-focused organisation like Community Credit Union steps forward, it sends a clear message: we believe in this place, and we believe in the people who live here.

Community Credit Union has always been at the heart of local life, offering services and support to families and businesses across Dublin 15 and beyond. Their values of community, trust, and support align perfectly with what we do at Ongar Tidy Towns. We’re not just keeping Ongar tidy – we’re helping create a place that people are proud to call home.

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Ongar Playground – A New Chapter for Our Area

The backdrop for our photoshoot with Community Credit Union was the new Ongar playground, which is already bringing excitement to families across the area. Ongar has grown rapidly in recent years, and the addition of a safe, accessible, and modern playground is something we know the community has been looking forward to for a long time.

Playgrounds are more than just swings and slides. They are spaces where children develop skills, families make memories, and neighbours meet. Having this new playground in Ongar will bring people together, encourage outdoor play, and give our tidy towns work even more purpose – because a well-kept, attractive community space is something we can all enjoy.

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we are already planning how we can complement the playground with planting, landscaping, and ongoing care to ensure it looks its best all year round. With support from Community Credit Union, these plans will become a reality sooner, and the results will benefit everyone in our community.

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Why Community Support Matters

One of the most rewarding parts of being involved in Ongar Tidy Towns is seeing the power of community spirit in action. Every time a volunteer joins a litter pick, every time a local business donates materials or sponsorship, and every time residents cheer us on, we are reminded that Ongar is full of people who care.

The donation from Community Credit Union is another example of how local organisations can make a big difference. This kind of support allows us to:

• Invest in seasonal planting projects that brighten up Ongar village and surrounding estates.

• Continue organising regular clean-up days to tackle litter and maintain our public spaces.

• Support the development of biodiversity initiatives, such as wildflower planting and pollinator-friendly areas.

• Enhance public spaces like parks, walkways, and community facilities so that they are welcoming and well cared for.

• Raise awareness about the importance of sustainability, recycling, and community pride.

Without partners like Community Credit Union, these projects would be much harder to achieve. Their support reminds us that tidy towns is a collective effort – when residents, businesses, and community organisations come together, we can make Ongar a model of what local pride can accomplish.

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A Heartfelt Thank You

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Community Credit Union for their generosity, encouragement, and belief in Ongar Tidy Towns. Meeting them at the new playground was a wonderful experience, and we are excited about the future possibilities this partnership brings.

We know that many people in Ongar are already members of Community Credit Union and rely on their services. Their ongoing investment back into the community shows that they are not just a financial institution, but a partner in building a stronger, more connected place for us all.

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Looking Ahead

The journey doesn’t stop here. Ongar Tidy Towns has many projects lined up for the coming months, from seasonal planting to clean-up campaigns and biodiversity initiatives. We will also be working closely with Fingal County Council and local groups to ensure the new playground becomes a centrepiece of pride for our area.

With the continued support of organisations like Community Credit Union – and the incredible volunteers and residents who give their time and energy – we know that Ongar will continue to thrive.

We invite everyone in the community to get involved with Ongar Tidy Towns. Whether you can give a few hours to help with a project, join us for a litter pick, or simply spread the word about what we do, every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can make Ongar one of the cleanest, greenest, and friendliest areas in Dublin 15.

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Conclusion – Growing Stronger Together

The support we have received from Community Credit Union is about more than money. It’s about building a relationship, sharing values, and working together to create a brighter future for Ongar. Standing together at the site of the new playground reminded us of what tidy towns is all about: community, collaboration, and pride of place.

As Ongar continues to grow and evolve, Ongar Tidy Towns will remain dedicated to ensuring that our community is looked after, loved, and celebrated. With partners like Community Credit Union by our side, the future looks very bright indeed.

✨ Once again, a sincere thank you to Community Credit Union for believing in us and supporting Ongar Tidy Towns. We are proud to call you a partner in making Ongar the very best it can be.

 

A New Playground for Ongar – Building a Brighter Future

There is a real sense of excitement in Ongar at the moment as work begins on a brand-new playground for our community. For years, families have wished for more safe and fun spaces for children to play, and now, that dream is becoming a reality. The new playground is not just about swings and slides; it represents an important step forward in making Ongar a more welcoming, inclusive, and family-friendly place to live.

Why a Playground Matters

Playgrounds are often thought of as simple spaces for children, but in reality, they bring so much more to a community. For children, they offer a safe environment to run, climb, and explore. Outdoor play supports both physical health and mental wellbeing, helping young people to build social skills, confidence, and friendships. In a world where screens so often dominate, having a safe and engaging outdoor space encourages children to get fresh air and exercise.

For parents and families, playgrounds provide a much-needed meeting point. They become places where neighbours get to know each other, where conversations spark between parents, and where community bonds strengthen. Playgrounds also add to the identity of an area. They are a visible sign of investment, care, and forward planning – a space that shows the community is valued and growing.

The Vision for Ongar’s Playground

This new project will deliver a modern playground designed with safety, inclusivity, and sustainability in mind. From the plans we’ve seen, the playground will include:

• A wide variety of play equipment suitable for different age groups, from toddlers to older children.

• Inclusive features so that children of all abilities can take part in the fun. This is a key aspect, as play should be for everyone.

• Durable, eco-friendly materials that will ensure the equipment lasts while also reducing environmental impact.

• Plenty of green landscaping, meaning the playground will not just be fun but also beautiful, fitting seamlessly into Ongar’s wider tidy towns vision.

As part of Ongar Tidy Towns, we are especially pleased to see how much thought has gone into creating a space that reflects our community’s values. We are committed to making Ongar greener, cleaner, and more welcoming, and this playground project is perfectly in line with that mission.

The Benefits for Ongar

The arrival of this new playground will mean so much for the people who live here. It will:

• Give children a safe space to play away from busy roads and traffic.

• Encourage outdoor activity, which is vital for health and happiness.

• Support families, making Ongar an even more attractive place to raise children.

• Create a new meeting point for neighbours and friends, helping community spirit to thrive.

• Add value to the area, as well-maintained public spaces make Ongar a more desirable place to live.

In many ways, the playground is not just for children – it is for everyone. Even those without young families will benefit from the sense of community it brings. A lively, happy, and active space adds to the overall atmosphere of the area.

Progress and Next Steps

Construction has already started, and residents may have noticed the work being carried out on the site. Over the coming weeks, we will see the space take shape, with equipment installed and the surrounding landscape prepared.

Ongar Tidy Towns will be keeping a close eye on developments. We plan to share regular updates on our blog and Facebook page, including photographs of the work as it progresses. Once the playground is completed, we hope to mark the occasion with a community celebration. After all, this project belongs to everyone in Ongar – it is something we can all be proud of.

How You Can Get Involved

This is a wonderful moment for Ongar, but it is also a reminder of how much can be achieved when a community works together. Ongar Tidy Towns is always looking for new volunteers to help keep our area looking its best. From litter picks to planting flowers, from supporting local projects to promoting sustainability, every little bit makes a difference.

If you would like to get involved, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us at Ongartidytowns@gmail.com or find us on Facebook to see our latest updates. 

Whether you have an hour a week or an hour a month, your support will help us to continue building a better Ongar for everyone.

Looking Ahead

The new playground is only one piece of Ongar’s future, but it is an important one. It represents investment in young people, in families, and in community spirit. It shows that Ongar is a place that values its residents, cares about quality of life, and is willing to invest in public spaces.

As the playground takes shape, we look forward to the day when the laughter of children fills the air, when parents meet for chats on the benches, and when neighbours come together in a shared space designed for joy. This is not just a playground – it is the heart of a growing, thriving Ongar.

Together, we are building more than play equipment. We are building memories, connections, and a brighter future.

Join Us This Sunday for an Hour of Power! 💪🗑️

 

Join Us This Sunday for an Hour of Power! 💪🗑️

Ongar residents, it's time to come together once again and show our love for our local community! This Sunday at 10:30 AM, we’re calling on all friends, neighbours, families and volunteers to join Ongar Tidy Towns for our next big Litter Pick.

Let’s meet at the Basketball Courts in Ongar Village and take part in what we like to call an Hour of Power – just 60 minutes of positive action to help make Ongar a cleaner, safer and more beautiful place to live.

It might not seem like much, but an hour really can make a world of difference. Whether it’s discarded takeaway wrappers, forgotten drink bottles, or bits of plastic hiding in the bushes – every piece of rubbish we collect is one less blight on our streets and green spaces.

Why get involved?
Because this isn’t just about picking up litter. It’s about community pride, meeting like-minded neighbours, and showing younger generations the value of looking after where we live. It's also a great way to get some fresh air, light exercise, and good craic – all while doing something amazing for Ongar.

And there’s more! Our Litter Picks are just one part of what Ongar Tidy Towns does. From fundraising projects and community planting to our anti-graffiti campaigns and public awareness drives, we’re working all year round to promote pride in our area. Every bag filled on Sunday helps our entry in the national Tidy Towns competition too – and with your help, we can make Ongar shine even brighter!

All ages are welcome – we’ll provide gloves, bags, and litter pickers. Just bring comfy shoes and a smile!

So set your alarms and gather your gang – see you this Sunday at 10:30 AM at the Basketball Courts for a feel-good Hour of Power that really matters.

Let’s keep Making Ongar a Beautiful Place to Live – one piece of litter at a time!

For any queries or to get involved in future events, drop us an email at ongartidytowns@gmail.com.

 We’d love to hear from you!

#OngarTidyTowns #HourOfPower #CommunityPride #KeepOngarBeautiful #VolunteerPower #TidyTownsIreland

New Bins Installed Beside the Dog Run – A Small Victory for a Cleaner, Greener Community! 🐶🗑️

New Bins Installed Beside the Dog Run – A Small Victory for a Cleaner, Greener Community! 🐶🗑️

We’re absolutely delighted to share some good news from our local area – new bins have finally been installed beside the dog run, thanks to the continued support and action from Fingal County Council. For many dog owners and park visitors, this has been a long-awaited addition, and we couldn't be happier to see it in place.

The dog run has always been a popular and well-used feature of our community. It’s a place where dogs can enjoy a bit of freedom, and owners can connect and chat in a safe, open space. However, without a nearby bin, it often meant carrying waste bags a long way or worse—waste left behind.

With the new bins now in place, we expect to see a noticeable improvement in cleanliness and hygiene around the area. This isn’t just a win for dog lovers—it's a win for the entire community, promoting a cleaner and more responsible environment for all park users.

We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Fingal County Council for responding to requests and ensuring that public spaces are being properly maintained. Credit also goes to our active local residents who consistently report issues, propose improvements, and work together through community groups like Ongar Tidy Towns.

Let’s continue to take pride in our shared spaces by using the new bins responsibly, picking up after our pets, and encouraging others to do the same. Small actions really do make a big difference.

Here’s to many more positive changes around Ongar and beyond!

#FingalCountyCouncil #OngarTidyTowns #CleanCommunity #DogFriendlySpaces #GreenerFuture #CommunityMatters #LocalWins #TidyTownsIreland

We applied for funding and it's been awarded

We applied for funding and it's been awarded

Ongar Tidy Towns – Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Initiative

Ongar Tidy Towns is launching an enhanced Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Initiative to protect and uplift our village environment. This initiative combines regular community clean-ups, targeted prevention strategies, and public education to address ongoing litter and graffiti issues, while promoting a sense of shared responsibility and civic pride.

We organise monthly litter picks involving volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. These events bring together residents, families, youth groups, and schools in a joint effort to keep Ongar clean. To support and expand these efforts, we plan to purchase a litter dust-cart – a mobile cart that will help us collect and transport rubbish more efficiently. This will allow our teams to cover larger areas during clean-ups while reducing physical strain on volunteers.

Educational outreach is central to our approach. Through collaboration with local schools, we will deliver anti-litter lessons, environmental workshops, and competitions. Students will create posters and awareness messages that will be displayed in public areas and on social media. This youth-led advocacy helps create positive habits and builds a strong foundation for long-term environmental stewardship.

 

Graffiti Management Approach

While Ongar Tidy Towns will not undertake graffiti removal directly due to material restrictions, we will actively support Fingal County Council’s efforts by promptly reporting all incidents. Volunteers will monitor known hotspots during clean-ups and submit detailed reports with photos and locations to aid swift removal. Where appropriate, we will work with local artists and youth groups to propose mural projects that discourage tagging and encourage community pride. We are committed to lasting change through teamwork, education, and practical solutions that make Ongar a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming place for all.

Greener Together:

Greener Together: How Ongar Residents Are Creating a Cleaner Community

At Ongar Tidy Towns, we believe that small actions can lead to big change. Over the past few months, we've seen a remarkable rise in local pride and environmental awareness, all thanks to the growing number of residents stepping up to make a difference. Whether it’s picking up litter, planting pollinator-friendly flowers, or reporting illegal dumping, our community is becoming a cleaner, greener place to live—together.

The recent community clean-up days have seen strong participation from families, youth groups, and local businesses. It's heartening to witness people of all ages uniting to tidy up our green spaces, playgrounds, and footpaths. With gloves on and litter pickers in hand, our volunteers are helping to restore the beauty of Ongar one bag at a time.

We’ve also partnered with Fingal County Council to ensure proper disposal of waste and to raise awareness about recycling and waste reduction. Thanks to this partnership, we now have clearer signage around recycling points and more accessible bins placed in high-traffic areas.

Gardening initiatives have also blossomed this spring. The Ongar Pollinator Project—launched earlier this year—has led to the planting of native wildflowers and bee-friendly shrubs in key locations. Not only do these projects add colour and life to our neighbourhood, but they also support biodiversity and strengthen our local ecosystems.

As we move into summer, we encourage all residents to get involved. Whether it's joining our monthly clean-up, reporting graffiti, or simply making the choice to recycle at home, every effort matters. Together, we are shaping Ongar into a model suburb for sustainable urban living.

If you'd like to volunteer, donate materials, or suggest a project idea, please reach out through our social media or contact page. Let’s keep Ongar beautiful for today and for future generations.

#OngarTidyTowns #KeepOngarBeautiful #CommunityCleanup #GreenOngar #SustainableLiving #FingalPride #PollinatorFriendly #EcoOngar #LoveWhereYouLive

Litter Picking in Ongar: A Call for More Bins and Better Habits

 

This morning, our dedicated Ongar Tidy Towns volunteers were back out doing what we do best—working hard to keep our community clean and beautiful. While we always enjoy coming together and making a difference, today's litter pick raised some ongoing concerns that we feel need to be addressed.

One of the most pressing issues we noticed is the continuing problem of illegal dumping. Since the council moved the public bins from their original locations, we’ve observed a worrying trend: people are still dumping rubbish in the exact same spots where the bins used to be. It’s as if the habit of dropping waste there hasn’t changed—only now, there’s no bin to collect it, so the area looks worse than ever.

We believe this clearly shows a need for more bins, not fewer. Strategically placed bins in high-traffic areas help encourage responsible disposal of waste. Without them, it’s only natural that rubbish builds up, which leads to not only an eyesore but also an invitation for further dumping. It sends the wrong message about the kind of community we want Ongar to be.

Today’s litter pick took us around Ongar Playground, one of the most popular and well-loved parts of our neighbourhood. Sadly, we found a significant amount of litter, including old shopping bags, discarded coffee cups, wrappers, and bits of broken packaging. Some of it had blown into the bushes, while other rubbish was left right by the benches and playground equipment. This isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s also a safety concern for children and families who use the space every day.

We’re calling on local residents to please be mindful of where you leave your waste. If there isn’t a bin nearby, take it home. Better yet, if you see litter, pick it up. These small actions really do make a big difference.

To the local authorities, we respectfully urge you to review the decision to remove or relocate the bins. Let’s look at installing additional bins in key areas like near bus stops, shops, and public parks where rubbish tends to collect. A cleaner Ongar is a shared responsibility, but we need the right infrastructure in place to support good behaviour.

To everyone who came out today—thank you. Your time and effort are what keep Ongar looking its best. We’ll be back out again soon, and we encourage anyone who wants to get involved to join us.

Let’s work together to make litter a thing of the past in Ongar!

#OngarTidyTowns #LoveWhereYouLive #LitterFreeOngar #Dublin15 #CommunityCleanUp #OngarPlayground #StopIllegalDumping #MoreBinsPlease #TidyTownsIreland #KeepOngarClean #LocalHeroes #VolunteeringMatters