Dublin Planning Authority Rejects Ronan Group’s 17-Storey Development

Dublin’s planning authority has officially denied a proposed 17-storey development by the Ronan Group Real Estate (RGRE) in the city’s docklands. An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) upheld the decision made by Dublin City Council, which rejected the ambitious project aimed at redeveloping Citigroup’s current European headquarters located at 1 North Wall Quay.

The proposed scheme involved demolishing the existing six-storey office building and replacing it with four new structures, ranging from nine to 17 storeys in height. In February 2023, RGRE submitted their plans, seeking 10-year planning permission. However, the council turned down the application in April, leading RGRE to appeal the decision to the ACP.

In its recent ruling, the planning appeals board found that the design’s significant height, bulk, and mass would create an overly dominant structure that would conflict with the surrounding environment. The ACP expressed concerns that the project would severely degrade the amenity of the Liffey Quays and obstruct important views along the river corridor.

The ruling highlighted the sensitivity of the site, which is located within the Liffey Quays conservation area and is in close proximity to residential properties. The ACP noted that the proposed development would lead to unacceptable losses of daylight and sunlight, as well as overshadowing a key shared amenity space.

Additionally, the ACP determined that the proposal did not satisfy the criteria for “exceptional circumstances” necessary for the approval of landmark tall buildings. The order, signed by planning commissioner Mary Henchy, stated that the wholesale demolition of the existing office structure was both premature and unjustified. This decision underscores a broader commitment to preserving existing buildings, aligning with policies outlined in the City Development Plan that advocate for retrofitting instead of demolishing.

The Clarion Quay Management Company CLG was a third-party appellant supporting Dublin City Council’s refusal. Their appeal aimed to protect residential amenities and ensure safe access within the area. In contrast, RGRE argued that their application met the criteria for exceptional circumstances, claiming that the City Council had not adequately considered this aspect.

Architectural firm Henry J Lyons, representing RGRE, contended that the proposed scheme was well-suited to the context of the site. Despite these claims, the ACP’s decision marks a significant setback for the project and reflects the ongoing tension between urban development and community interests in Dublin’s evolving landscape.

As the city navigates its development challenges, the outcome of this appeal may influence future proposals and the approach to high-rise construction in sensitive areas.