People across Dublin are being urged to have their say on the future transformation of College Green, as the public consultation on the ambitious redesign project draws to a close tomorrow.
The Grow College Green Project, led by Dublin City Council, aims to transform the historic city centre space into a safer, greener and more pedestrian-friendly plaza.
Residents, commuters, businesses and visitors have until midnight on Wednesday, March 12, to submit feedback through the consultation portal at Engage Ireland.
City officials say the current consultation is the final stage of public engagement before the project moves to its next phase.
“This is the last opportunity for people to share their views before final designs are completed and a planning application is submitted,” the council said.
Radio Nova's very own Louise Ducrocq recently went to College Green to explore what changes will take place, check out the video below:
@radionova100fmOver the next 12 months, new cycle lanes, bus corridors and pedestrian zones are rolling out across the city — from the Dodder Greenway linking Milltown to Dundrum, to major upgrades on Gardiner Street and the North Circular Road. College Green is being cleared of buses to become a pedestrian plaza 🌱 BusConnects construction is starting too, with more reliable routes from Liffey Valley and Ballymun–Finglas into town. Regeneration plans will commence in Tallaght and Clondalkin 🚧 Will this make Dublin greener, or increase traffic jams and transport disruption? 🎙️
Major Changes Planned
Under the proposed plans, the space stretching between Trinity College Dublin and the junction of South Great George’s Street and Dame Street would become fully pedestrianised, with access maintained for emergency vehicles at the western end.
The redevelopment includes expanded walking routes, extensive seating areas, additional planting and flexible spaces for public events and everyday use.
A key feature of the proposal is the creation of a large paved events plaza in front of Trinity College, designed to host cultural activities and gatherings in the heart of the capital.
The design also incorporates two significant water features alongside a patchwork of green spaces.
Greener City Centre Vision
Plans include 75 new trees, lawns and large planting areas connecting the plaza from the Bank of Ireland building at College Green to South Great George’s Street.
A new cycle route will run along the southern side of Dame Street before crossing north near the Bank of Ireland building, following a path similar to the current cycle lane. Pedestrian crossing points will be included along the route to ensure safe access across the plaza.
Extensive seating areas and a dedicated play space are also planned as part of the redevelopment.
The council said the project aims to create “an environment that encourages people to stop, relax and connect with the city around them.”
Sustainability Measures
Sustainability is another major focus of the project. The proposals include rain gardens and underground water storage systems designed to help manage rainfall and improve drainage in the city centre.
Although public toilets are not currently included in the plans, the council confirmed funding has been set aside for such a facility and discussions are ongoing with waste management teams.
Timeline and Cost
The redevelopment is expected to cost up to €80 million, including a contingency budget. A planning application is scheduled to be submitted later this summer, with construction potentially beginning in late 2027 and completion targeted for 2030.
So far, almost 1,000 responses have already been submitted during the consultation process.
Dublin City Council is encouraging anyone interested in the future of the city’s central civic space to take part before the deadline. “We want as many voices as possible to help shape the future of College Green.”
You can voice your say by clicking this link: https://engage.dublincity.ie/en-IE/projects/grow-college-green
