Dublin city taskforce recommends redevelopment of GPO on O'Connell Street

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

The GPO should be redeveloped as a major public building, according to the recommendations of the Dublin City Centre Taskforce.

The Taoiseach is to bring a memo to Cabinet on Tuesday to approve the publication of a report from the taskforce and establish an interdepartmental implementation group.

The report, which was presented to the Taoiseach last month, contains 10 major initiatives to revive the city centre.

It makes significant recommendations on the revitalisation of O’Connell Street with a particular focus on the GPO building.

Proposals were made to the taskforce for its use including a world-class museum, a leading government department, or the relocation of the national broadcaster. However, the taskforce did not make a determination.

A decision on its future use could be made by the end of Q1 next year.

The report is expected to outline how a “step change” is required in developing the inner city area with a recommendation that regeneration should be managed as a special programme.

Other areas covered in the taskforce’s report include housing, policing, waste and culture.

It is expected the Government will establish the interdepartmental group with a timeline to report back to Government before the end of the year with recommendations. The group will be overseen by the Department of the Taoiseach.

The group will also be responsible for assessing the multiannual cost and policy implications of the recommendations at a local and national level.

The taskforce was led by An Post chief executive David McRedmond.

The body was tasked with making recommendations on improving the city centre’s public realm, safety and experience.

It included 12 members, including gardai and trade union representatives as well as community and cultural representatives.

It examined areas from Parnell Square in north Dublin to Stephen’s Green in the south of the city.

The report will be published next week.