Full steam ahead for Docklands development

Last year saw continuing efforts in Dublin’s Docklands project.

"Unprecedented levels of development commitments and on-site commencement took place in the past year, demonstrating the continuing and escalating level of market confidence in the Docklands," said Lar Bradshaw, Chairman of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority, who was speaking at the launch of the Docklands Authority's annual report and accounts for the year ended December 31, 2003.

Outlining the progress of the Docklands project to date, Peter Coyne, Chief Executive of the Docklands Authority, said that "while some 1,300 homes and 50,000 square metres of commercial schemes commenced during 2003, the total extent of active schemes in the Docklands was nearer 2,300 homes and 100,000 square metres commercial."

On the Docklands Authority's own Grand Canal Harbour site, three major residential schemes went on site, Gallery Quay, HQ and Longboat Quay.

The quality of the area development was recognised during 2003 with a number of accolades for planning and architecture.

Other highlights of 2003 on the development side include the completion of the architectural concept competition for the landmark tower at Britain Quay, which will house the proposed U2 recording studios.

Architects Burdon Craig Dunne Henry (BCDH)'s design to provide a slender twisting residential 60-metre tower was selected.

"There is still a huge amount to be done and we need to maintain the momentum in order to ensure the quality and economic sustainability of the project," Mr Coyne said.