RDS Dublin Gets Permission For €26million Revamp

The ever-more competitive scene for concerts in Dublin took another twist yesterday, with the decision by Dublin City Council to grant planning permission for the proposed redevelopment of the RDS’ Anglesea Road sporting arena.

The RDS is the home venue for Leinster rugby, who will benefit from the increase in capacity which the permission allows, from 18,500 to 21,000 spectators. There will also be an increase in the numbers that the ground will hold for open-air concerts. Among the acts that have played the RDS in recent years are Bruce Springsteen, Britney Spears, Bon Jovi, Paul McCartney, Neil Young, Pussycat Dolls, Take That, U2, The Eagles, ZZ Top, Simon & Garfunkel, Queen and many more. The biggest crowd to attend an RDS concert to date was in excess of 40,000 for Bruce Springsteen in 2009 and Bon Jovi in 2011.

The development will see the demolition of the existing Anglesea stand and terrace, as we’ll as a shed with is at the Simmonscourt Road end of the ground. A floodlit grandstand will be constructed, with three levels. It will be 21.3 metres tall. Despite objections from local residents, the council decided that the planned development would not have a significant negative impact on the existing amenities of the area. There are over 400 events held every year in the RDS.

Residents of Anglesea Road are expected to appeal the decision to An Bord Pleanála.