A NEW CHAPTER FOR A HISTORIC AREA OF DUBLIN INNER CITY
During July 2024 I photographed a complex of old city flats which is about to be redeveloped after many years of neglect.
Having lived in the area for three decades, I've witnessed the rise and fall of the Upper Dorset Street and St. Mary's Place flats. While these 1960s-era complexes became known for anti-social behaviour in their later years, the root cause was more complex than simple neglect. The buildings themselves suffered from poor maintenance, becoming increasingly unsuitable for habitation. These deteriorating conditions undoubtedly contributed to the rise of social issues.
In a significant step towards revitalising the area, the redevelopment of the Dorset Street / St. Mary's Place site received crucial planning approval from Dublin City Council in January 2022. This ambitious project aims to replace the outdated five-storey blocks with 163 new homes and community spaces. This not only adds 50 much-needed homes but also prioritises high environmental sustainability standards. The revitalised site will offer improved access, better amenities, and a stronger connection to the surrounding neighbourhood, aligning with the Council's wider regeneration goals for the city centre.
A Design Focused on Community and Sustainability
Led by Scott Tallon Walker Architects and Levitt Bernstein Architects, the project team has crafted a design that respects the local context while fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. The new buildings, ranging from three to seven storeys, will seamlessly integrate with the existing streetscape. Non-residential spaces will be strategically located at street level on Dorset Street, contributing to the area's vitality. Importantly, the historic Dorset Street Fire Station building will be preserved and celebrated as a focal point within the new development.
The thoughtfully planned layout prioritises pedestrians, with new landscaped streets, play areas, and seating creating a welcoming neighbourhood feel. Residents will also enjoy access to high-quality open spaces within sheltered courtyards. A variety of modern apartments, duplexes, and terraced housing will cater to diverse needs, with the majority boasting dual aspect views.
Project Timeline and Community Benefits
The redevelopment is planned in two phases:
Phase 1: Expected to begin in August 2022 (subject to funding), this phase will deliver seven houses, 11 duplexes, and 79 apartments, along with a karate club, crèche, and café.
Phase 2: Scheduled to commence in August 2024, this phase will add 66 apartments and include the new St Saviour's boxing club.
The project also aims to replace and enhance existing community facilities, such as the childcare centre and a café adjacent to the future Fire Museum. Careful consideration is being given to managing construction traffic and minimising disruption to the local community. While parking within the development will be limited, additional on-street spaces are planned for St Mary's Terrace to accommodate residents, visitors, and those with accessibility needs.
A Brighter Future for Dorset Street
The Dorset Street redevelopment represents a significant investment in the area's future. By addressing the underlying issues of the old flats and providing much-needed modern housing and amenities, it promises to create a more vibrant and sustainable community for years to come.
Having lived in the area for three decades, I've witnessed the rise and fall of the Upper Dorset Street and St. Mary's Place flats. While these 1960s-era complexes became known for anti-social behaviour in their later years, the root cause was more complex than simple neglect. The buildings themselves suffered from poor maintenance, becoming increasingly unsuitable for habitation. These deteriorating conditions undoubtedly contributed to the rise of social issues.
In a significant step towards revitalising the area, the redevelopment of the Dorset Street / St. Mary's Place site received crucial planning approval from Dublin City Council in January 2022. This ambitious project aims to replace the outdated five-storey blocks with 163 new homes and community spaces. This not only adds 50 much-needed homes but also prioritises high environmental sustainability standards. The revitalised site will offer improved access, better amenities, and a stronger connection to the surrounding neighbourhood, aligning with the Council's wider regeneration goals for the city centre.
A Design Focused on Community and Sustainability
Led by Scott Tallon Walker Architects and Levitt Bernstein Architects, the project team has crafted a design that respects the local context while fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. The new buildings, ranging from three to seven storeys, will seamlessly integrate with the existing streetscape. Non-residential spaces will be strategically located at street level on Dorset Street, contributing to the area's vitality. Importantly, the historic Dorset Street Fire Station building will be preserved and celebrated as a focal point within the new development.
The thoughtfully planned layout prioritises pedestrians, with new landscaped streets, play areas, and seating creating a welcoming neighbourhood feel. Residents will also enjoy access to high-quality open spaces within sheltered courtyards. A variety of modern apartments, duplexes, and terraced housing will cater to diverse needs, with the majority boasting dual aspect views.
Project Timeline and Community Benefits
The redevelopment is planned in two phases:
Phase 1: Expected to begin in August 2022 (subject to funding), this phase will deliver seven houses, 11 duplexes, and 79 apartments, along with a karate club, crèche, and café.
Phase 2: Scheduled to commence in August 2024, this phase will add 66 apartments and include the new St Saviour's boxing club.
The project also aims to replace and enhance existing community facilities, such as the childcare centre and a café adjacent to the future Fire Museum. Careful consideration is being given to managing construction traffic and minimising disruption to the local community. While parking within the development will be limited, additional on-street spaces are planned for St Mary's Terrace to accommodate residents, visitors, and those with accessibility needs.
A Brighter Future for Dorset Street
The Dorset Street redevelopment represents a significant investment in the area's future. By addressing the underlying issues of the old flats and providing much-needed modern housing and amenities, it promises to create a more vibrant and sustainable community for years to come.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR A HISTORIC AREA OF DUBLIN INNER CITY