Dublin City Council has approved a significant redevelopment of the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, a decision that has sparked criticism over proposed changes to the building’s well-known architectural features.
The project, submitted by owners DTDL Ltd, will expand the centre to eight storeys and include a major reconfiguration of retail areas. Plans also incorporate new office space, cinema screens, and several hospitality venues, including a restaurant or bar with an outdoor terrace.
Developers argue the overhaul will revitalise the shopping centre and enhance its retail offering. However, critics contend that the removal of the centre’s distinctive curved façade and glass dome will alter what they describe as an iconic landmark in the Grafton Street area since the late 1980s.
The approval follows revised plans submitted last month at the request of the council, particularly concerning the main entrance. While adjustments were made, the updated design remains largely similar to the original proposal.
This latest decision comes after a previous redevelopment plan for the site was rejected by An Coimisiún Pleanála last summer. Opponents have indicated they intend to appeal the council’s ruling to the same body.
Public response to the proposal has been largely negative. Dublin City Council received 61 submissions on the application, most of which opposed the development. One objection, submitted on behalf of the Save Stephen’s Green Campaign, was supported by a petition signed by 20,000 people.
In recommending approval, the council planner’s report noted that “the applicant has chosen to retain the majority of the architectural design of the corner element as initially proposed.” It also highlighted revisions to the façade, stating they include “the provision of a canopy cover over the main entrance that will contribute to the creation of placemaking associated with the proposed development.”
According to the report, the applicant “has satisfactorily addressed the planning authorities’ concern regarding a lack of strong placemaking and urban design elements associated with the development.”
Despite this, concerns were raised by the City Council’s Conservation Officer regarding the scale and potential impact of the project. The report acknowledged that the officer “has reiterated their concerns regarding the overall scale and bulk of the proposed development as presented and its potential impact on the wider area and how the scheme addresses Grafton Street and the wider area.”
The planner noted these concerns but concluded that “a balance has to be struck between the planning gain and the conservation impact of the proposed development.”
Ultimately, the council determined that, when considered in full, “the deep retrofit of the St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre will result in an improved visitor and retailer experience associated with the centre.” It further concluded the development would align with the civic character of the area and would not detract from local amenities.
As part of the approval, the developer has been directed to contribute €4.2 million towards public infrastructure and an additional €1.3 million to the LUAS Cross City scheme.
In supporting documentation submitted last month, the design team for Lanthorn said the updated plans “introduce a more defined and cohesive architectural expression that enhances the building’s presence at St Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street.”
