Belfield, Dublin facts for kids
Belfield (Irish: Belfield) is a small area in Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, Ireland. It is mostly known as the main home of University College Dublin (UCD). This big university campus is located here.
Belfield is near several places like Donnybrook, Ballsbridge, and Stillorgan. It got its name from Belfield House. This house and its land were among many properties bought to create the UCD campus. The area is also right next to the R138 road.
History of Belfield
Belfield was once considered a possible location for Dublin Airport. However, another place called Collinstown was chosen instead. Today, Belfield is famous for being the main campus of University College Dublin. This campus covers a huge area of 132 hectares.
University College Dublin (UCD) started a long time ago in 1851. It was first known as the Catholic University of Ireland. It was founded by John Henry Newman, who was its first leader.
In 1934, UCD bought Belfield House. From 1949 to 1958, the university bought more land nearby. This was done to create a large campus estate.
In 1960, the Irish Government suggested that UCD should move. They wanted the university to move from the city centre to Belfield. The first buildings finished on the new campus were for the Faculty of Science in 1964. Other parts of the university moved to Belfield over time. They moved as their new buildings were ready.
What Can You Find in Belfield?
Belfield is home to more than just the university. It also has the Belfield office park. This park includes a large international Hewlett-Packard office. This office used to handle many customer calls.
The area also has a sports ground called The Belfield Bowl. Here, the UCD soccer team and the rugby team play. Both teams compete in the top leagues for their sports.
The college also has its own media. This includes student newspapers like the College Tribune and the University Observer. There is also a radio station called Belfield FM. You can even find a television station called the College Television Network.
Businesses in Belfield
There are several office parks in and around Belfield. These include Belfield Office Park, Clonskeagh Drive, and Beech Hill Office Park. Beech Hill also has a gym nearby.
Many companies have offices here. Some of these companies are Hewlett-Packard, Ericsson, and Smurfit Kappa. The Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform also has offices in this area.
