Historic Stephen's Green Shopping Centre Dome Saved from €100M Redevelopment
Dublin's iconic St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre dome has been saved as planning authorities reject a €100 million redevelopment proposal, marking a victory for architectural heritage preservation.
The iconic glass dome of St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, a distinctive landmark in Dublin's city center
Dublin Landmark Preserved as Planning Authority Rejects Major Commercial Development
An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) has rejected a controversial €100 million redevelopment plan that would have demolished the iconic glass dome at St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, marking a significant victory for Dublin's architectural heritage preservation.
The proposed development, which aimed to create over 35,000 square meters of office space, faced strong opposition from heritage groups and local businesses. The decision overturns Dublin City Council's previous approval from December 2023, highlighting the growing tension between commercial development pressures in Dublin's business district.
Key Stakeholder Opposition
Several prominent figures challenged the development, including:
- An Taisce, citing lack of architectural sensitivity
- Former Irish Times Environment Editor Frank McDonald
- Long-term trader Emmett Rogers, who has operated Tribe at the centre since 1992
The rejection reflects broader concerns about preserving Dublin's architectural character while accommodating modern commercial growth in the city center.
Future Development Possibilities
While rejecting the current proposal, ACP has indicated that future modifications to the structure, including the dome, could be permissible under the Dublin City Development Plan - provided they meet high-quality design standards. This stance aligns with the city's approach to balancing preservation with modern business development needs.
The replacement of the façade, including the external trellis detailing and dome, would not contravene the Dublin City Development Plan, subject to an appropriately high-quality design solution," stated the ACP in their decision.