RTE lodged an ambitious proposal to develop a new broadcasting facility in the grounds of its existing facility in Donnybrook, Dublin 4.

The present complex of buildings are located on the southern half of its overall site and accessed from Nutley Lane. The proposal was to develop in the northerly half of the site (currently in landscaped open space) and to create a new entrance from the Stillorgan Road. The buildings were designed by Scott Tallon Walker who have designed the original cluster  of buildings on the complex.

An attractive office building was proposed alongside Stillorgan Road  and  its entrance was to be set  in a large landscaped plaza as shown below.

Behind this building the Studios and Broadcasting areas were proposed. Because of the  large landscaped set backs  to the front, this meant that the back side of this building, with its service areas of air coolers, vens etc, were pushed up against the  rear boundary  wall of houses on  the adjoining Seaview Terrace to the East.  The  rear building also contained a floor of offices which looked down from a height into the gardens. There was also a service road,  running along the back boundary  to  the gardens  of these houses. This area provided access to the underground car parking  as well as providing off loading bays.

The residence of the German Ambassador was one of the houses affected. Manahan Planners objected to the City Council  on his behalf and when the Council  granted permission, we  appealled that Decision. Following a 5 day oral hearing, the Board granted permission. We were pleased with the outcome in that while the Board granted permission, it did so subject  to the offices in this location  being omitted,  and   strict  conditions were imposed   re noise levels, tree planting, use of service road and access to basement in the vicinity of our clients property.