Concrete finish of ramps built in 1972 reflects a distinctive architectural look
Dublin Airport and its parking ramps in 1975. Photo: INM
A planner’s impression of what the parking ramps would look like beside a revamped T1
An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) has refused planning permission to DAA, the operator of Dublin Airport, to demolish the spiral parking ramps on “an extremely valuable site” at the airport.
The decision upholds a planning refusal issued by Fingal Co Council earlier this year. In its decision, ACP concluded that the spiral ramps are part of the architectural heritage of Dublin Airport and form part of the existing approach to Dublin Airport’s T1.
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ACP found that the demolition of the ramps “would diminish the visual amenity on approach to T1 and expose the crude architectural detailing of the existing structures to the rear of the spirals, including the prominent architectural elements of the energy centre currently screened by the spiral car park ramps and as such would erode the character of the area.”
The commission also pointed out that the spirals were constructed as part of the terminal in 1972 and their concrete finish reflects a distinctive architectural look, typical of the brutalist style.
The commission stated that, notwithstanding the fact that the spirals were not a protected structure, they are of technical and architectural merit “by virtue of their brutalist design, associated concrete construction and their unique architectural form and shape which reflect a distinctive feature adjacent to the T1 building.”
A planner’s impression of what the parking ramps would look like beside a revamped T1
The order stated that therefore, in the absence of evidence and appropriate rationale or justification, the proposed demolition of the spiral ramps is considered contrary to policies in the Fingal County Development Plan relating to the protection of architectural heritage.
In its appeal, DAA chief commercial and development officer Vincent Harrison said it considers that “the removal of redundant, deteriorating structures” is a strategic part of unlocking future airport development potential.
Mr Harrison described the application site as “an extremely valuable site, particularly in the context of a limited and finite land resource”.
Yesterday, a DAA spokesman said: “We are surprised and disappointed by ACP’s decision as the spiral ramps were not identified as significant heritage assets in previous architectural reviews or national surveys.
“The spiral ramps have not been in use for many years and their structural condition has deteriorated over time.
“Removing them was part of our plan to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency for all our passengers and employees.
“We will review the decision in detail and consider next steps.”
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