Abbey relocation plans stall

Plans to move the Abbey Theatre to Dublin's Parnell Square have stalled.

The preferred location for the new Abbey was to be the Colaiste Mhuire site at Parnell Square about a quarter of a mile from its existing location, but this would have needed the purchase of the adjacent site.

So far the Office of Public Works and the owner have failed to agree on what the OPW feel is a fair market price for this site.

Now John O’Donoghue has asked his officials in consultation with the OPW and the Abbey to reconsider the whole viability of moving to the Colaiste Mhuire site.

The Minister has said that while he is determined to secure a new home for the Abbey, it is important to get the decision right.

Mr O’Donoghue admits the proposal to move the national theatre from Abbey Street may have to be shelved.