Dublin businesses object to plan for homeless shelter

Businesses in the South Georgian Quarter of Dublin have objected to the opening of a new hostel for the homeless, which would be located 400 metres from the Merrion Hotel.

According to the Sunday Times, more than 25 submissions have been made to Dublin City Council over a proposed homeless shelter on Fitzwilliam Street Lower, near the five-star hotel.

The former Longfields hotel at Number 9 and 10 Fitzwilliam Street Lower, owned by the Council, had been earmarked to accommodate a homeless shelter on Harcourt Street by the Dublin Simon Community.

Local objectors say they are concerned about putting an emergency shelter in buildings that are protected structures and that it may become a 'wet hostel' where alcohol can be consumed.