Proposed apartment block by Ha'penny Bridge widely opposed

A proposed high-rise apartment block beside the Ha-penny Bridge has caused widespread criticism from bar owners, An Taisce and more.

According to the Irish Times, city councillors have also opposed the eight-story building on the Woollen Mills site by the Liffey. One of whom stated that the apartment block would be a "visual pollutant" on Dublin's skyline, and a "carbuncle."

Elsewhere, owners of bar and music venue The Grand Social have said the move could affect the venue’s commercial viability.

An Taisce claimed the proposal is attempting to “shoehorn” an eight-storey tower on a site located in the best preserved section of the city’s quays and would represent “an appalling precedent.”

The organisation also argued that the block would be “visually obtrusive” and would affect several protected structures including the Woollen Mills and Winding Stair bookshop and café.

Developers SRM Brook and Cook have sought planning permission from Dublin City Council for the 28-metre high apartment block, which would provide six three-bed apartments and one two-bed unit with a communal roof area as well as a restaurant at ground floor level.

Consultants speaking on the developer's behalf said the block was designed “to harmonise” with the surrounding area while forging “a distinct, high-quality structure which adds visual interest to the area.”

They argued the apartments would not be “injurious” to the conservation area around the city’s quays as it would be set back from the River Liffey.

Meanwhile Mannix Flynn said the proposed building would be a “gross overdevelopment of a sensitive, iconic site.”

“Its impact, if allowed go ahead, would undermine the integrity of this unique corner of Dublin,” said the independent councillor. “It will take away from the good visual impact one gets when crossing the Ha’penny Bridge from south to north.”