Planning permission has been granted for a five-storey office and retail development on a site in Donnybrook, Dublin.

However, as it had originally been earmarked for a 26-storey tower, opposition to the original plan by developer Denis O'Brien has achieved moderate success.

However, builders hoping for contracts may have to wait, as there is now no certainty on whether the development would now go ahead.

An Bord Pleanála actually granting permission for the development against the recommendation of its own inspector.

He said that even the revised five-storey scheme was excessively tall and bulky and would be contrary to the proper development of the area.

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The approved development involves the demolition of the existing single-storey building on the site and its replacement with two five-storey buildings, connected by a glazed bridge over The Crescent at first, second and third-floor levels.

Seven retail units would be located at ground-floor level with office space on the first, second, third and fourth floors. There would also be 68 car parking spaces.

Local residents and An Taisce had appealed to An Bord Pleanála against the development largely on the grounds of the height and scale, which they said would dominate buildings in the area, particularly the residential terrace adjoining it on The Crescent, and would be out of character with largely low-rise Donnybrook.

Revisions made to the scheme last July meant the scale and layout were finally acceptable in relation to protection of the amenities of property in the vicinity and provision of parking.

(BMcC/GK)