St. Stephen's Green Shopping Centre revamp raises concerns

The proposed renovation of Dublin's St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre has elicited a variety of reactions, including concerns from Dublin City Council (DCC). A €100 million revamp was announced in January after consultants determined that the existing centre needed to be modernised due to underperformance.

In addition to a complete redesign, DTDL Ltd's plans include adding two floors to the existing six-story building. This should result in almost 2,000 square metres of additional floor space, allowing for more and larger stores, as well as a reconfigured mall opening onto St Stephen's Green.

Concept for St Stephens Green Shopping Centre - Credit: Dublin City Council

According to the Irish Times, Dublin City Council has expressed serious concerns about the shared plans. Adding that several issues may arise as a result of the building's height, scale, and mass. Furthermore, the proposed demolition and alterations would not address the building's significance, according to the DCC.

The shopping centre was built in 1986, developed by the British Land Company, and designed by James Toomey. With its unique design of glass and ornate white iron, the shopping centre is a real eye-catcher. St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre is therefore particularly memorable, especially among tourists.

As the centre plays a key role in making the city centre the most important shopping area in the country, the DCC calls for a revision of the plans.