Visualisation of the Piazza in the proposed plans for Dalkey Tramyard. Image: Project Orange Architects Visualisation of the Piazza in the proposed plans for Dalkey Tramyard. Image: Project Orange Architects A COMPANY PART-owned by U2’s lead singer Bono has secured planning permission for a controversial new development in the heart of Dalkey, which it was claimed could turn the Dublin village into a new Temple Bar.
However, the company, which is one-third owned by Bono who lives in nearby Killiney, had also appealed a planning condition imposed by the council requiring it to scale back its plans for the site. Clós Nua, which is also one-third owned by Belfast-born hotelier and property developer Paddy McKillen Snr, wants to demolish most of the existing buildings apart from protected structures in the tramyard in order to develop a three-storey over basement building consisting of a bar/restaurant, café, health centre, retail kiosks and cultural spaces as well as offices and a public plaza.“The pavilion element is essential to the design strategy of the overall scheme.
Subject to compliance with a number of planning conditions including the omission of the pavilion and rooftop garden, the board said the proposed development would not seriously injure the visual amenities of the area or residential properties in the vicinity. She claimed the original plans would create “an overpowering visual presence” and would be “incongruous” with the built character of Dalkey.