Construction of O’Connell Street Spire begins

Work on the foundations of Dublin’s controversial Spire monument began this morning.

The Taoiseach has hailed the project as a chance to make O’Connell Street one of the world’s greatest thoroughfares.

"As a Northsider, I am convinced O’Connell Street is the greatest street in Dublin and has the potential to be one of the great streets of the world, like the Champs Elysées or Broadway," Mr Ahern said this morning.

Artist's impression of the view of the Spire from O'Connell Street Bridge

However, when asked if he liked the design of the 120-metre high stainless steel monument, Mr Ahern was noncommittal.

"I find it hard to visualise what it will look like, we’ll see how it shapes up," he said. "I can’t say I like it until I see it in the street. I remember all the arguments over Nelson’s Pillar, so I know what the issue means to people. Let’s just say I fully support the project itself".

Construction of the Spire will begin in September. It will arrive in sections to be bolted together at the site over several weeks.

There will also be a new civic plaza in front of the GPO, which will feature a tree-lined public space with kiosks and public conveniences.

The rejuvenation plans are part of the O’Connell Street Integrated Area Plan, costing €350 million. The area has also been designated the city’s first Architectural Conservation Area.

"We need O’Connell Street to glisten", the Lord Mayor Michael Mulcahy said today. "I believe the Spire will inspire".