THE OLD DORSET STREET FIRS STATION IS IN GOOD CONDITION
DORSET STREET FIRE STATION LOOKS A BIT ISOLATED [THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT IT HAS BEEN PRESERVED]
Dorset Street/St. Mary's Place Redevelopment: A Rapid Transformation Underway
During July 2024, I photographed a complex of old city flats on Upper Dorset Street and St. Mary's Place that is rapidly undergoing redevelopment after many years of neglect. Having lived in the area for three decades, I've witnessed the rise and fall of these 1960s-era complexes. While they unfortunately became known for anti-social behaviour in their later years, the root cause was more complex than simple neglect; poor maintenance rendered the buildings increasingly unsuitable for habitation, contributing significantly to the social issues experienced.
In a significant and swift 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 This ambitious project, which is progressing at a remarkable pace since its initial groundwork, aims to replace the outdated five-storey blocks with 163 new homes and community spaces.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 has not only survived but has been beautifully restored and is in very good condition. It is being celebrated as a focal point within the new development, though its traditional charm risks being somewhat "overpowered" by the sheer ambition and scale of the overall project surrounding it.
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, demonstrating the project's rapid progression since planning approval and the start of enabling works, is being executed in phases:
Phase 1: While the initial demolition and enabling works commenced in late 2022 / early 2023, the construction of the new homes for this phase is currently ongoing. Once completed, this phase will deliver seven houses, 11 duplexes, and 79 apartments, along with a karate club, crèche, and café.
Phase 2: This phase, which was originally scheduled to commence in August 2024, is now likely integrated with the main ongoing construction efforts. Once completed, it will add 66 apartments and include the new St Saviour's boxing club.
The overall scheme, encompassing both phases, is anticipated to reach completion around 2026/2027.
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.
Dorset Street/St. Mary's Place Redevelopment: A Rapid Transformation Underway
During July 2024, I photographed a complex of old city flats on Upper Dorset Street and St. Mary's Place that is rapidly undergoing redevelopment after many years of neglect. Having lived in the area for three decades, I've witnessed the rise and fall of these 1960s-era complexes. While they unfortunately became known for anti-social behaviour in their later years, the root cause was more complex than simple neglect; poor maintenance rendered the buildings increasingly unsuitable for habitation, contributing significantly to the social issues experienced.
In a significant and swift 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, which is progressing at a remarkable pace since its initial groundwork, 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 has not only survived but has been beautifully restored and is in very good condition. It is being celebrated as a focal point within the new development, though its traditional charm risks being somewhat "overpowered" by the sheer ambition and scale of the overall project surrounding it.
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, demonstrating the project's rapid progression since planning approval and the start of enabling works, is being executed in phases:
Phase 1: While the initial demolition and enabling works commenced in late 2022 / early 2023, the construction of the new homes for this phase is currently ongoing. Once completed, this phase will deliver seven houses, 11 duplexes, and 79 apartments, along with a karate club, crèche, and café.
Phase 2: This phase, which was originally scheduled to commence in August 2024, is now likely integrated with the main ongoing construction efforts. Once completed, it will add 66 apartments and include the new St Saviour's boxing club.
The overall scheme, encompassing both phases, is anticipated to reach completion around 2026/2027.
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.