A first look at the first phase of planned redevelopment of the 1950s flat complexes
20.01.26
Dublin City Council has published plans for the redevelopment of the School Street and Thomas Court Bawn flat complex on Marrowbone Lane – the first phase of a planned regeneration of all the 1950s complexes in this area.
A Part VIII planning application has been announced, giving members of the public the opportunity to formally engage and comment on the plans.
The two blocks currently comprise 79 apartments and the aim of the project is to develop 124 apartments, across a series of refitted and new buildings set around a courtyard. The proposals also include a new multi-use community space.
The existing School Street block, which fronts onto Taylor’s Lane, will be redesigned and retrofitted, including increasing its height to 6 storeys.
The existing Thomas Court Bawn block will be demolished and replaced with two new blocks ranging in height from 5 to 9 storeys. 124 apartments are being built, with a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments as well as a number of Universally Designed apartments.
A new community space, a garden and playground will also be provided, and its planned to upgrade the public realm of Marrowbone Lane, Taylors Lane and School Street with new landscaping and tree planting.
The public consultation on the plans will commence shortly, with a final decision on the plan made by city councillors later this year. Detailed design and tendering for construction will take place in 2027, while construction proper will start in 2028.
The regeneration of the School Street complex is one of a number of large social housing projects at various stages of development in The Liberties. New developments at James Street and Cork Street are expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with 216 apartments. Planning permission has been granted for the development of 108 apartments on the site of the City Council’s Road Maintenance Depot at Marrowbone Lane; as well as a planned regeneration of Basin Street flats to develop 171 apartments, together with a community hub, creche and a public open space. The Iveagh Trust has secured permission for new housing at Dolphin’s Barn, at the junction with SCR and opposite the Coombe Hospital. And proposals are being advanced for older persons accommodation on sites on Marrowbone Lane and Ardee Street.
More details on the proposals at www.dublincity.ie.
