Pre-plan designs released for a pedestrianised College Green

Dublin City Council published the pre-planning design for ‘Grow College Green’ yesterday, the flagship project to reimagine the historic centre of Dublin City, creating a new space that is a destination for everyone.

The updated design has been shaped and informed by an extensive programme of engagement that began in August 2024. This has included two rounds of non-statutory consultation, over 2,800 written submissions and more than 100 in-person engagement moments.

These have ranged from one-to-one meetings with a wide range of stakeholders, public drop-in events and sessions with local businesses, to a Family Fun Day and walkabouts with Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs).

The redesigned space will become a lively, pedestrian priority area where residents, workers, students and visitors can meet friends, enjoy events or simply take in the city’s landmarks in a safer, more comfortable setting.

Sustainability and climate resilience form the foundation of this design, with more trees, shade, planting, safe cycle routes and high-quality sustainable materials supporting Dublin’s climate goals and creating a public realm that is both vibrant now and resilient into the future.

Greener edges, climate resilient planting, comfortable seating and nature-based drainage solutions will all help create a healthier, more resilient city centre. Improved views of landmark buildings, including Trinity College and the Bank of Ireland, will restore the sense of arrival and identity long associated with this important civic space.