Consultation launched on future of George’s Dock in Dublin Docklands
A public consultation has been launched by Dublin City Council (DCC) on the future of the long-empty George’s Dock site in Dublin.
The four-week consultation will run from today until November 14, and all interested parties from residents, community groups and businesses are encouraged to contribute their ideas for the space.
Many ideas have been floated for the area in the last number of years, from an ill-fated white water rafting centre to a Lido swimming facility to an events space.
In a release announcing the consultation, DCC suggested possible use cases, among them cultural events, water-based activities, nature-inspired features, recreation spaces and public amenities.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Ray McAdam said the area was a “cornerstone” of the capital’s Docklands area.
"This public consultation is a chance to reimagine the space as a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable destination for all,” he said.
"Whether through culture, recreation, nature, or water-based activities, our goal is to reflect the spirit of a modern Dublin, dynamic, connected, and welcoming.
"Together, we can shape a vision for George’s Dock and create a space that future generations will cherish.”
The council said the consultation was part of a wider programme of work underway at the site to conserve and repair George’s Dock, which would begin next month and take up to four months to complete.
It comes after a major fire at the edge of the site in August, which damaged the structure of the adjacent bridge and restricted Red Line Luas services east of Connolly station. It is to be demolished and replaced in the coming weeks.
Originally built in 1821, the site is named after King George IV, and formed a key part of Dublin’s Custom House Docks alongside Customs House and Stack A warehouse (now the CHQ building).
Speaking to the Irish Independent last month, DCC chief executive Richard Shakespeare said that any future council development for George’s Dock would need to be cognisant of the authority’s finances.
“We’ve got to assess them in terms of viability,” he said. “The city council doesn’t have an endless pot of money.”
Mr Shakespeare said that because of the level of borrowing the council is currently engaged in with capital projects like the fruit and vegetable market and Parnell Square library, it has to be careful how it proceeds with George’s Dock.
Members of the public can contribute their ideas for the space here: https://engage.dublincity.ie/en-IE/projects/reimagining-george-s-dock-together