In the heart of our capital we have one of the most significant regeneration opportunities in the State and along with the Metro the State should deliver affordable cost rental homes.
The Dublin Central site, encompassing the former Carlton Cinema lands and adjoining areas around O’Connell Street, Moore Street and Henry Street, presents a unique chance to deliver much-needed homes while revitalising the city centre.
For too long, progress on this strategic site has been delayed. While previous plans focused heavily on commercial development, we now have an opportunity to rethink the project in light of today’s housing needs, the development of MetroLink, and the fact that the site is now in public ownership through Transport Infrastructure Ireland.
I have called on the Ministers for Housing and Transport to work together with the LDA to deliver affordable cost rental homes on O’Connell street.
A housing-led masterplan could deliver a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood with affordable purchase homes, cost-rental homes, retail, cultural spaces and public amenities. Crucially, it would bring more people back to live in the city centre, supporting local businesses, improving footfall and helping create a safer, more sustainable urban environment.
MetroLink further strengthens the case for ambitious residential development. International experience shows that high-quality housing located beside major public transport infrastructure delivers social, economic and environmental benefits. Dublin Central has the potential to become a model of transit-oriented development and sustainable city living
At the same time, any redevelopment must respect and enhance the unique heritage of Moore Street and the surrounding historic quarter. Regeneration and heritage protection must go hand in hand
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. By placing housing at the centre of the Dublin Central project, Government can deliver thousands of homes, breathe new life into the north inner city, and create a vibrant neighbourhood that future generations will be proud of.
The time to act is now.
