The Arts Council has stepped in amid a heated disagreement over plans to transform a property on Usher’s Island in Dublin, renowned for its association with James Joyce’s ‘The Dead’, into a 10-apartment building. The Council’s director of strategic development, Deirdre Behan, has submitted a letter of concern to the Dublin City Council. She urged them to ensure that the due regard is given to protecting and conservatively developing the property due to its unique cultural and special interest value.
This correspondence was triggered by contested plans proposed by a company named Brimwood UC, under the ownership of ex-senior GAA football manager of Monaghan, Séamus ‘Banty’ McEnaney. This firm had claimed over €30 million last year as a result of accommodating International Protection (IP) candidates and Ukrainians under contracts with the Government.
In her detailed three-page letter, Ms Behan reminded the City Council about the immense cultural significance this property holds to Irish literature and its contribution to the city’s rich, built heritage, particularly on the southern quays of Dublin city.
Moreover, Behan stated that it’s crucial for the proposed development to align with the goals of the Dublin City Development Plan 2022-2028.
Meanwhile, Zoe O’Beimhen, backed by a 1,675-signature-strong petition, communicated her opposition to the council against the approval of the 10-apartment plan at 15 Usher’s Island. She appealed to Darragh O’Brien, Housing Minister, to enforce a ministerial directive leading to the compulsory purchase of the building.
O’Beimhen expressed concerns about a culturally incompatible development and emphasised that such a unique edifice could not be reestablished once it is lost.
Charles Hulgraine, a local architect, voiced his apprehension for maintaining only the namesake of this significant Joycean landmark while submitting comprehensive plans to the council.
Meanwhile, a planning report lodged with Dublin City Council by planning consultant Kevin Hughes on behalf of Brimwood suggests that it is more appropriate to utilise the building for residential purposes than as a traveller’s hostel, which previously had been granted permission. The impracticality of reverting the building to a single dwelling was stated, prompting the proposal of a 10-apartment conversion.
In defending the proposal, Hughes assured the parties concerned that the applicant and the design team placed great emphasis on preserving and enhancing the building’s original fabric. A verdict on the project is expected next month.