DCC Approves €100M for Stephen’s Green Redevelopment

Dublin City Council has given the green light, and approved €100 million for Stephen’s Green Redevelopment. This landmark, in existence since 1988, is set to undergo a major transformation, marking a significant chapter in the city’s architectural evolution. The project, spearheaded by DTDL Ltd and managed by financial powerhouse Davy, aims to breathe new life into the ageing structure.

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The decision comes after meticulous planning and revisions to address concerns raised by the Council, emphasising a commitment to preserving the sensitive urban environment. The 51-page planner’s report commended the developers for reducing the scale and massing of the proposed scheme, noting a considerable reduction in visual impact on the surroundings.

What will be the benfits of Stephen’s Green Redevelopment?

St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, while recognized as a local landmark, faced challenges in attracting sustainable retailers over the years. The proposed Stephen’s Green Redevelopment seeks to address these issues by reconfiguring the street-level retail mall. This includes the introduction of larger, high-quality shops and a strategic mix of retail, food and beverage spaces, and commercial offices on upper floors.

Architects behind the project, BKD architects, highlighted the difficulties the current structure faces in accommodating modern retail needs, citing small unit sizes and the underperformance of certain shop units. The proposed changes aim to create a vibrant retail space that meets the demands of contemporary retailers while enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the centre.

A key element of the redevelopment is the inclusion of cultural spaces, such as a cinema and gallery. The Council planner’s report welcomed these additions, anticipating increased activity and engagement within the revamped centre. Additionally, a new café/restaurant/bar zone will link the mall to the street, further enriching the visitor experience.

However, the project is not without its critics. Former Environment advocate, Frank McDonald, expressed concerns about the scale of the proposed office development and its potential impact on the iconic view from within St Stephen’s Green. McDonald argued that the proposed changes might alter the character of the area, suggesting that the city might pay a price for such a significant transformation.

As part of the conditions for approval, the developers are required to contribute €3.96 million in planning developer contributions and an additional €1.27 million towards the LUAS C1 Line Scheme. These financial commitments demonstrate a collaborative effort to invest in the community and public infrastructure.

In conclusion, the redevelopment of St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre represents a bold step towards revitalizing a key site at the gateway to Dublin’s south retail core. While opinions on the project vary, there is a shared aspiration to create a modern, sustainable, and culturally rich space that will contribute to the city’s continued growth and evolution. As construction commences, Dublin anticipates the emergence of a transformed landmark that will shape its urban landscape for generations to come.