Madam, – With reference to Damian O’Regan’s letter (July 27th) relating to the destruction of St Stephen’s Green, it is the understanding of the Irish Georgian Society that though the proposed Metro North would have a considerable detrimental impact on the Victorian planting schemes in the Green, it is the intention of the Rail Procurement Agency (RPA) to reinstate any protected structure removed by cause of the excavation works.
In meetings with the RPA, the Irish Georgian Society has relayed its concerns about the proposed Metro North which include the following: the potential impact of excavating and boring works on historic properties along the line; the application of best conservation standards in the reinstatement of all protected structures that are removed; and the enhancement of the city’s future architectural patrimony through achieving excellence in design for both the stations and their street level entrances.
Similar underground schemes have been carried out to great success in enhancing other historic cities including that in Bordeaux where the tram system is a model of good design and sensitive works in an historic environment. Should the Metro North go ahead, let us hope that a similar approach is taken in Dublin. – Yours, etc,