A consortium headed by businessman Denis O'Brien has been refused permission to build a 26-storey residential tower in Donnybrook in Dublin.
Upholding a decision by Dublin City Council last September, An Bord Pleanála ruled the tower was excessive in height and scale.
Mr O'Brien's Partenay Ltd appealed the council's decision to refuse permission for the 87m (285ft) glazed cylindrical tower on the former BizQuip site, between the Garda station and the local fire station on the crescent and Donnybrook Road.
In its appeal, Partenay argued that the existing buildings on the site are "unsightly" and that the building would "mark a key point of identification or gateway into the city".
The development would also revitalise the commercial centre of Donnybrook with a modern landmark building, according to the developers.
Minister for Justice Michael McDowell was among many objectors to express opposition to the tower. He urged his Dublin South East constituents to object to the development.
Objectors argued that the building would dwarf development in the vicinity and would damage the character and architecture of the area.
The planning board ruled on Tuesday that, despite design quality, the proposed building was on a restricted site in a primarily residential area of established character and would have failed to comply with policies on high-rise buildings.
"It is considered that the excessive height and scale of the proposed 26-storey glazed tower and four-storey podium building on this restricted site would result in an unduly prominent and overbearing form of development that would create overlooking and unduly detract from the established character, appearance and amenities of the area," the board stated.
Designed by de Blacam and Meagher Architects, the €20 million residential and commercial building would have risen from a four-storey brick-clad base and double-basement car park. It was envisaged the tower would have 36 two-bedroom apartments, office and retail space, a gym and a roof garden.