Dublin’s Tallest Tower Permitted

An Bord Pleanála recently resolved to grant planning permission for an 88 metre tower at Tara Street. This contentious development had previously been rebutted by Dublin City Council and ABP and again at the second time of asking, the Planning Authority refused to support the amended proposal, citing ‘irrecoverable’ impacts upon the setting and character of the Custom House which is located opposite.

Notwithstanding the fact that the extant City Development Plan designates the location for a ‘High Rise’ building in excess of 50 metres at the location, a key catalyst in the granting of this development was the Government Guidelines on Urban Development & Building Heights, published in December 2018. This effectively removes height restrictions in urban areas, with proposals subject to assessment against site specific criteria. This is broadly recognised by the development industry as a progressive move which will lead to more taller buildings at central locations in Dublin, contributing to greater densification and compact growth.

Concerns will endure from An Taisce (the Irish National Trust) relative to the impacts of such buildings on Dublin’s historic environment. Those with reservations should take comfort from the countless examples of contemporary buildings integrating with historic built assets found in London.