The new Abbey Theatre is to be built on a site at George's Dock in Dublin's Docklands area, it was confirmed today.
Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, John O'Donoghue made the announcement today. He said in addition to the Abbey, yesterday's Budget contained provisions for a major development at the National Concert Hall.
The Theatre Royal in Wexford will also be remodelled, and the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin will be refurbished.
The decision on the Abbey was taken following a recommendation from the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has been advising the Minister on alternative locations for a new Abbey Theatre for the past three years.
Mr O'Donoghue said his Department would put €26 million towards the cost of the work at the Theatre Royal. The balance of €4 million will be contributed by private benefactors and sponsors, he said.
A total of €4 million will be spent on the Gaiety, the minister added.