Sir, - it was with considerable satisfaction that I read about "urban renewal" in the forthcoming Docklands Development by Frank McDonald (March 20th). It is inevitable that there will be conflicts of interest between relevant groups, but these do not appear insurmountable.
My only regret is that the plan will, in effect, leave the area from the east of O'Connell Street to the Custom House untouched. This, I believe, is a serious oversight and is symptomatic of the lack of a structured policy for Dublin and Ireland's primary thoroughfare.
The allocation of tax breaks and incentives, which have been liberally availed of in other areas, has been an unqualified success where an overall plan has been prepared. If O'Connell Street and its environs are not to become increasingly marginalised, a fresh approach and some direct action, are required.
I would like to propose that (a) the plan should be extended to O'Connell Street East; (b) tax incentives be implemented in certain areas. The appropriate consideration should be given by the planners to include the area mentioned in all future plans. - Yours, etc.,
Clery & Co.,
O'Connell Street,
Dublin 2.