Madam, – An Taisce is correct to highlight the poor quality of shopfronts in some of Dublin’s most historic areas (Home News, February 8th).
One of the main reasons for the low standards of design in these areas is the reluctance of the council to fully use its powers of “Architectural Conservation Area” designation. These are areas whose special character and architectural interest it is desirable to preserve, but if you look at the 10 areas that are designated you will find that many of the city’s finest streets are not included. Westmoreland Street and Dame Street, which An Taisce mentions in particular, are not designated, so we must presume that the council does not see these areas as worthy of protection. Some other oddities include the designation of De Courcy Square in Glasnevin but no designation for areas such as Merrion Square, St Stephen’s Green or Dawson Street for example.
There is no shortage of information and studies on the historic areas of Dublin so it is about time that the council properly uses the powers at its disposal. – Yours, etc,