Residents of Ringsend or Irishtown with access to:

• A garden or other outdoor space big enough for the planter.*

• A plastic downpipe used to channel rainwater from your roof (unfortunately we cannot modify cast iron downpipes)

*Please note: Due to accessibility considerations, it might not be possible to install planters on footpaths at the front of houses, as this may obstruct access for wheelchair users or prams.

• Please fill out the application form and share a bit about your space.

• Understand that certain criteria must be met (like space, drainage, and access).

• Arrange and partake in a short in-person consultation to make sure the planter will work in your space.

• Be available on the agreed delivery/installation date – unfortunately, we cannot reschedule once a date is confirmed.

• Please purchase your own plants using our recommended list of plants.

• Keep the planter in place for 10 years. Please inform us if you are selling or renting your property, so we have an opportunity to discuss the benefit of the planter with the next tenants.

• Participate in occasional community events or friendly competitions (optional but fun!).

• Be patient as this is a community project. Our small team is working hard to get to everyone.

If your application and consultation has a positive outcome, you'll receive:

• A free installation of a fully functioning rainwater planter valued at over €800. It's going to be made out of grey recycled composite plastic and galvanised steel. It will measure approx. 91cm long x 86cm high x 51cm wide.

• A greener, more biodiverse urban space

• A simple way to help manage rainwater and reduce local flooding

• A chance to be part of an exciting research project helping shape sustainable cities

• A booklet with guidance, plant ideas, and maintenance tips

• And most importantly – a chance to contribute to something positive and community-focused in Ringsend & Irishtown

After the planter is delivered, a trained person will fill the planter with layered drainage (sand, soil and gravel) and modify the downpipe to divert rainwater into the planter. This process is safe, tidy, and carried out by trained professionals.

The planters are designed to be very low maintenance. They’re made from durable, long-lasting materials like galvanised steel (to prevent rust), recycled composite plastic so the outside should last for decades. The inner aluminium insert that holds the soil and plants can naturally weather over time and usually needs replacing about every five years to keep everything watertight. As of 2025, replacing this insert with Pace costs around €100–150 (which works out at roughly €20–30 per year). Other than that, just tend to your plants as you would with any other planter and keep an eye to make sure the water is flowing in and out free of blockage!

The social enterprise Pace manufactures the planters. They are made from a recycled composite plastic, aluminum and supported within a galvanized and powder coated steel frame.

Ringsend has a combined sewer system, like many other places in Ireland. This means wastewater and stormwater go into one pipe system to be treated together. As storm events increase in intensity and frequency, the collecting systems are put under stress, and lead to overflow of diluted wastewater into our rivers and the sea. The problem is amplified by increased use of impermeable surfaces over gardens and driveways, and lack of nature in urban spaces.

Rainwater retention planters are a beautiful solution to urban water problems. The principle of a rain retention planter is to slow and temporarily store rainwater before it enters our drains, preventing the likelihood of surface-level flooding and pollution of the sea with wastewater. This is done by channeling water from a downpipe (a pipe which collects water from the roof), into a planter before entering the drain. This system allows biodiversity to flourish with positive benefits for our waterways, people and wildlife.