The Land Development Agency (LDA) has proposed 550 additional dwellings in its draught masterplan for the redevelopment of Dublin 8’s Digital Hub Campus.
The next round of consultation on the proposed Pear Tree Crossing development has already commenced, with the goal of regenerating the 3.7-hectare property with affordable housing and a mix of commercial, cultural, and community activities.
The master plan outlines proposals for regeneration and phased development of the lands earmarked for transfer from the Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) to the LDA as part of the government’s Housing for All initiative.
The LDA said it wants to “contribute to the development of The Liberties and to transform this currently underutilised area into a new, sustainable urban community with a distinctive identity.”
The 550 new homes will be made of new build and multi-generational affordable and social housing, including the re-use of upper floors of existing structures for residential purposes.
Buildings on Thomas Street will be refurbished and adapted for mixed use on the ground floor and residential usage on the higher floors, while St. Patrick’s Tower will be refurbished for cultural and community use.
The Watling Warehouse will also be refurbished to provide residential homes, and public realm works including public spaces and additional pedestrian and cycling routes.
Community groups and stakeholders are encouraged to find out more about the LDA’s plans and share their own thoughts via the dedicated website www.peartreecrossing.ie.
“The LDA is delighted to bring forward this important draft masterplan for the lands at Digital Hub for public consultation,” said John Coleman, CEO of the LDA. “We believe this will catalyse the transformation of a mostly vacant heritage district into a vibrant new sustainable community.
“Pear Tree Crossing will provide an exceptional opportunity to enhance the Liberties and contribute to the transformation of this currently under-utilised area. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, stakeholders and the local community as we work towards an exciting new chapter in the heart of Dublin city.”
Dearbhla Lawson, head of strategic planning at the LDA, added: “The LDA aims to regenerate these lands in a way that will respect the site’s distinctiveness, heritage, and its unique connection to the local community.
“The draft masterplan provides new affordable and social housing underpinned by strong sustainability, community-oriented values, new connections to improve permeability while respecting the heritage of the historic area.”