Since 1934, the council has leased the property out for £20 a year, or the equivalent in euro, on the condition that it be put to “community use”.

Dublin City Council says that problems raised by tenants come down to maintenance and repair. Councillors say they run much deeper.

“I feel nervous, it’s such a responsibility in a way and the area has experienced a lot,” says Muirne Bloomer.

That amount of money might cover 12 crossings if they are simple ones, or up to just three or four if they are more complicated.

Local groups in Phibsboro, Cabra and Stoneybatter are asking residents of those areas to help them create a “circular economy” map.

For weeks, white booms have floated on the water around Blackhorse Bridge, as part of a clean-up effort.

These were among the issues that councillors discussed at recent meetings of their North Central Area Committee and North West Area Committee.