MetroLink Station Construction Threatens St. Stephen's Green

MetroLink station construction at St. Stephen’s Green would be tantamount to “partial demolition” of the historic park, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has argued during a public hearing.

MetroLink Station Construction Sparks Controversy

The OPW, responsible for safeguarding national monuments, claims the project would necessitate removing historic features like railings, lampposts, and sculptures.

While some would be returned, they’d be relocated, and over 60 mature trees would be permanently lost. “While the OPW supports modern transport infrastructure,” said David Browne, barrister for the OPW, “it cannot be at the expense of Ireland’s national heritage.”

The public hearings on MetroLink construction, convened by An Bord Pleanála, aims to gather input from various stakeholders, including project developers, residents, and institutions. The proposed station is one of 16 planned for the 19 km MetroLink line running through Dublin.

The OPW claims no agreement has been reached with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) regarding St. Stephen’s Green, unlike 31 other properties under their care.

Browne emphasised the park’s status as a public park, protected structure, and national monument since 1877. He argued that any alterations contradicting its purpose as a public leisure facility would qualify as demolition under the law.

TII, however, maintains they’re taking steps to minimise the impact on the park. “TII does not consider the proposal to be a demolition of St. Stephen’s Green in any way.,” said TII’s barrister Declan McGrath.

The hearing also saw discussions about past alterations to the park. Conservation architects highlighted changes like removing a historic gateway in the 1960s to make way for the Wolfe Tone monument.

The hearing is ongoing, with further discussions expected on the project’s impact on St. Stephen’s Green and potential mitigation measures.