Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has granted planning permission for two residential towers - one 14 storeys high, the second 10 storeys - at Sandyford industrial estate in south Co Dublin. Tim O'Brien reports.
The 14-storey building is just two storeys shorter than Dublin's Liberty Hall, currently the city's tallest. The towers are part of major redevelopment of the Microsoft building and surrounding 5.23 hectares which provides for 753 apartments and major leisure, shopping and commercial facilities.
The development company involved is Landmark Developments which is currently building the adjacent hospital and residential complex Beacon Court, across the road from the Microsoft site. A proposed, enclosed pedestrian bridge would link both developments at first floor level.
The 753 apartments include 48 penthouse units with balconies, terraces, winter gardens and roof gardens. Also included are 184 one-bedroom units; 448 two-bedroom units; 17 three-bedroom units and 56 two- to three-bedroom duplex units.
In addition to the residential element, there is separate provision for 39 one-bedroom "live/work" units which are designed to be used for residential as well as office use.
The commercial facilities include 11 retail warehouses, a car showrooms, local retail units and a convenience store. There will also be a cafe/bar on site. Leisure facilities include a gym, a swimming pool and a creche.
The existing Microsoft multi-storey car park will be augmented with a three-storey basement car park which between them will provide parking for almost 2,000 cars. Apart from the towers the other buildings on the 5.23 hectare site will range in height up to eight storeys high. Access to the development will be from Blackthorn Drive, Blackthorn Road and Carman Hall Road.