The first phase of construction on the Dublin City Library Parnell Square Project has commenced on Parnell Square North.

Dublin City Council said the new library, essential works to protected Georgian houses at numbers 23-28, and a refurbishment of the Georgian house at number 27, as well as works at the Hugh Lane Gallery, would be completed during Phase 1.

Phase 1 had initially been costed at €80m excluding VAT, but the council is reviewing the figure in light of inflation and the addition of the Hugh Lane Gallery works.

The library will feature 6,000 sq m of reading and lending space as well as spaces studying, working, meeting, creating and performing as well as a multi-purpose conference centre, a café and exhibition areas.

Demolition of the existing Amharclann building is currently underway and site investigation to inform the design of the new library’s foundations will follow immediately after the demolition.

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Instrumentation including vibration, dust and noise monitors have been installed close to the site in order to protect the Hugh Lane Gallery, the Georgian buildings and other nearby structures.

“I am delighted that work can finally begin on this project,” said the Lord Mayor of Dublin Caroline Conroy. 

“It has the potential to transform this part of the city, and together with the Hugh Lane Gallery, turn it into a real cultural hub for Dubliners and visitors alike.”

The council said it is committed to completing the remaining phases of the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter project in collaboration with with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, adding that further details are still to be confirmed.

Photo (l-r): Dublin City Council CEO Owen Keegan and Caroline Conroy on site during works on Phase 1 of the Dublin City Library Project at Parnell Square, Dublin. (Pic: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos)