Crowds have gathered outside the shopping centre to demonstrate against the proposed redevelopment of the building, which has stood since the 1980s
14:11, 09 May 2026Updated 14:22, 09 May 2026
Protestors at the Save Stephen’s Green protest. Image credit: Alfredo Kenny
Hundreds of people have gathered at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin city centre to protest the proposed redevelopment of St Stephens Green shopping centre.
Crowds have gathered outside the shopping centre, with those gathered hearing arguments from speakers about how the redevelopment would mean a loss of character for the area. Protesters gathered carrying signs which read “down with this sort of thing” and “it’s called Stephen’s Green not Stephen’s grey.”
The Save Stephen’s Green campaign arranged the protest to take place Saturday May 9 at 1PM. The group are calling for the relevant authorities to recognise the “historical significance” of the building by listing it as a protected structure.
They believe that the proposed changes threaten the buildings “distinctive charm” and will “replace it with soulless modernity.”
Campaigners have also launched a petition, which currently carries almost 25,000 signatures, titled Preserve St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre from Redesign.
Dublin City Council’s decision to grant planning permission for the overhaul has been met with criticism after approval was granted for the significant redevelopment.
Campaigners at the Save Stephen’s Green protest. Image credit: Alfredo Kenny
The proposal for the 1980s glass and iron landmark at the top of Grafton Street involves partial demolition and rejuvenation, the project has recently been delayed due to an appeal lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála.
More than 60 submissions were previously made to the local authority regarding the development, with the majority understood to be opposed to the plans. May 18 is the closing date for appeals to be made about the plans.
Planning permission was granted after applicants DTDL lodged revised plans for the design of the façade at the centre’s main entrance last month.
The application proposed to increase the shopping centre to eight storeys, reconfigure the retail space, add office space and cinema screens and develop a bar or restaurant with a terrace.
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