Revised design for Liberty Hall gets permission

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Dublin city planners have granted permission to Siptu for the demolition of Liberty Hall and its replacement by a taller and bulkier building. At a height of 93.6 metres, the new tower would be more than half as tall again as Dublin’s first “skyscraper”.

The decision, which is certain to be appealed to An Bord Pleanála, contains 20 conditions, many of them very detailed. Some relate to the architectural treatment and also require a full survey of the existing building, so it can be “preserved by record”. Docomomo Ireland which is committed to preserving monuments of the Modern Movement, said last night it would appeal the decision to An Bord Pleanála.

Siptu maintains the existing 60-metre-high building, which dates from 1965, is no longer functional. Welcoming the planners’ decision, general secretary Joe O’Flynn said it would be considering the conditions along with professional advisers. An earlier planning application was withdrawn last year after city planners were unenthusiastic about the design. It was resubmitted with revised upper floors.