Planning Permission Granted for St Stephen’s Green Tower
US developer Kennedy Wilson secures planning permission to build a nine-storey office campus at Dublin’s prime St Stephen’s Green, boosting city skyline ambitions.
Dublin City Council approved revisions to Kennedy Wilson Investment Funds ICAV’s scheme at Stokes Place. This updates a prior consent from An Coimisiún Pleanála in January 2023. That original grant allowed demolition of an outdated office complex facing St Stephen’s Green and Harcourt Street for an eight-storey replacement. The latest plans elevate the structure to nine storeys and expand office space by 3,530 square metres to reach 40,800 square metres total. City planners confirmed no negative effects on nearby areas.
The upgraded project promises a mixed-use hub for over 3,000 workers. Developers highlight improved pedestrian paths and central garden areas to foster vibrant public spaces. Council reports praise the design for enhancing placemaking and positioning the site as a lasting Dublin landmark. Refurbishment of nine Russell Court apartments adds a residential element, blending living and work environments seamlessly.
This planning permission aligns with efforts to revitalise central Dublin properties. Kennedy Wilson, a US-based property firm active in Ireland, targets high-quality developments. The Stokes Place site sits in a key business zone, drawing major occupiers like KPMG, whose current offices face redevelopment. Approvals followed submission of updated drawings last August, addressing urban integration concerns.
Stakeholders raised points during consultation. BKD Architects, representing DTIL Ltd owners of nearby 97-100 St Stephen’s Green, flagged design issues and potential impacts. Despite objections, planners endorsed the scheme, citing balanced scale and benefits. No mentions of An Bord Pleanála decision, flood-risk development, housing scheme approval, or material contravention appear in reviews; focus stays on office-led growth with environmental nods via green spaces.
Kennedy Wilson’s push reflects broader trends in Irish commercial real estate. Firms seek modern, sustainable offices amid demand for flexible workspaces. This campus could anchor business activity near Georgian landmarks, drawing tenants with top-tier amenities. Total floorspace supports large-scale operations, potentially injecting economic vitality into the area.
Development timelines remain unspecified, but approvals pave the way for swift progress. Dublin City Council’s green light underscores support for strategic infill projects. Watch for construction updates as this landmark takes shape, redefining St Stephen’s Green fringes.
Originally reported in The Irish Independent on Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:48:00 +0000. [Full story]
