Trade union Siptu has withdrawn its planning application for the redevelopment of the iconic Liberty Hall building in Dublin due to what it described as “design issues”.
The union said today, however, it would reapply for planning permission within three months.
Siptu general secretary Joe O’Flynn said in a statement: “We have decided to withdraw the current planning application due to detailed design issues.
“While the union, its professional advisors and Dublin City Council officials have worked hard to resolve these outstanding issues, time simply ran out on us.”
He said that after “detailed consideration” it had withdrawn the application to allow it more time to resolve the matters.
Mr O’Flynn said that the union remained fully committed to proceeding with “this major project for the union and the city of Dublin as the current building is no longer fit for purpose”.
He said that out of respect for the planning process, the union would not make any further comment at this time.
Siptu lodged its planning application with Dublin City Council last February, seeking to replace Liberty Hall with a significantly taller building, topped by a “sky pod” that would give visitors panoramic views over the city and Dublin Bay.
The existing building dates from 1965.
Under the plan, the 17-storey, 60m (197ft) tall block on Eden Quay/Beresford Place would be replaced by a 20-storey tower rising to 84m (277ft).
Siptu unveiled the details of its proposed development at its centenary annual conference in October 2009, pledging that the new Liberty Hall would have a “wow factor” second to none in the capital – surpassing the Guinness Storehouse.
Designed by Gilroy McMahon Architects, who were also responsible for Croke Park, the facilities were also to include a 300-seat theatre at lower ground level, a heritage centre illustrating Siptu’s history and 15 floors of office space.
Architect Des McMahon said last February it was likely to attract 250,000 visitors annually, generating significant revenue for Siptu.