John Curell whose family came as refugees from France during a time of persecution there lived in Clonard House. He advertised in 1844 that Clonard House and land not exceeding 25 statute acres was to be let. The surmise is that the "Clonard streets" take their name from Clonard House. The Belfast And Province Of Ulster Directory 1858-1859.
"Application read, asking that a new street on Clonard estate be named Clonard Gardens, and the Committee expressed themselves favourable to the application for the portion of the new street, from Cupar Street to Dunmore Street, being named Clonard Gardens, and with a view to this being done Alderman Wilson gave notice that he would move at next meeting that the resolution passed on 17th November, 1897, in reference thereto be rescinded". (26th January 1898).
“Resolved on application of the owners Messrs RJ McConnell and Co. a new street on their property from Cupar Street to Dunmore Street be named Clonard Gardens.” Minutes, Improvement Committee, 2nd February 1898.