Individuals who appreciate the Victorian-style architecture of the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre will need to remain patient, as the decision for its revamp by An Bord Pleanála has been postponed.
The shopping centre, which houses more than 100 shops and has been overseen by Davy stockbrokers since its establishment in 1988, underwent a purchase of €175 million and is facing a drastic transformation.
Although Stephen’s Green isn’t a listed building, it holds a dear spot in the hearts of many Dublin inhabitants. This is evidenced by the common fond reference to its resemblance to a stationary Mississippi riverboat by the periphery of St Stephen’s Green, drawn by McDonald, who covered its inauguration.
However, the renovation proposal hasn’t been universally applauded. People were especially disappointed with the plan to remove its iconic ironwork cladding facade and the three-storey atrium inside, which houses the well-known clock. McDonald communicated this discontent, criticising the desire to construct three more floors for office spaces to replace the retail centre.
An Taisce also expressed their objection in assertive language, criticising the proposed architectural design of not resonating with the originality of the city.
In contrast, Dublin City Council endorsed the renovation, contingent on certain stipulations. Both McDonald and An Taisce contested this verdict and took it up with An Bord Pleanála.
Despite the anticipation, due to a sizable backlog of cases, the decision, which was initially slated for 23rd September, has been deferred. An assurance remained that they will resolve the appeal as urgently as feasible.