Heuston Gate

Heuston Gate ( _ga. Geata Heuston) is a proposed skyscraper development in Dublin. Heuston Gate was planned to contain at its heart a 32 storey tower [http://skyscrapernews.com/buildings.php?id=1333] which would have been either Ireland's tallest or second tallest building depending on when the U2 Tower was completed.

Designed by Paul Keogh Architects, Dublin [http://www.pka.ie] the tower was commissioned by the Office of Public Works as part of the OPW’s major urban renewal project at Military Road Kilmainham.

It was planned to erect the tower on the western fringe of Dublin City Centre facing onto Heuston Station, an important rail transport terminus from which the development gains its name.

The development, similar to other high-rise developments proposed in Ireland, was due to be completed in 2008. But it met with considerable fear and opposition. This stemmed from local concern that the tower would overshadow and negatively affect surrounding residential areas. This was dismissed by the relevant planning authorities as they voted for the development 5-2.

The proposal was to create a new mixed use neighbourhood with vibrant streetscape, and active ground level activities to encourage street life and a pedestrian-friendly public realm.

The scheme aspired to be a model of environmental sustainability, using energy saving technologies such as solar power, district heating, high insulation levels and heat recovery systems. The design was audited using the BREAM energy rating method.

However, due to the economic downturn in Ireland in June 2008 it was announced the project would not proceed.