Grow College Green Public Realm Project

Overview

The Emerging Design phase marked an important stage in the development of the Grow College Green Public Realm Project. Building on extensive pre‑design engagement carried out throughout 2024 and early 2025, Dublin City Council (DCC) presented the first visualisation of the proposed transformation of this historic civic space and invited the public to respond. This phase focused on sharing early design concepts, gathering public and stakeholder insights, and using this feedback to refine the preliminary design.

Emerging Design Consultation

In June 2025, DCC published a suite of emerging design materials, including artistic sketches, contextual images, and proposals for cyclist and vehicular access. These materials outlined the design team’s initial response to the feedback gathered during earlier consultations and illustrated how the space could evolve into a greener, more inclusive, and more vibrant urban environment.

Engagement Opportunities

Members of the public were invited to review the materials and share their views through multiple channels, including:

• An online survey
• Postal submissions to the Grow College Green Project Office
• Comment sheets available at a consultation table in the Civic Offices Atrium

This consultation invited reflections on the emerging design concepts and encouraged participants to comment on access and movement, public realm quality, heritage interpretation, and the overall vision for the future of College Green.

All submissions received were reviewed by Dublin City Council and the Integrated Design Team to support the ongoing refinement of the preliminary design. The Council emphasised that public contributions during this period would be invaluable in shaping the next stage of project development.

Emerging Design Consultation Report

Following the consultation period, DCC published the Emerging Design Consultation Report, summarising the feedback received and outlining how it will inform the project’s next steps.

Consultation Activities

The Emerging Design engagement included:

• A public drop‑in event held at College Green
• Targeted workshops with key stakeholder groups
• An online survey

More than 750 responses were received across all channels, demonstrating strong public interest and engagement with the development of this significant city‑centre space.

Key Findings

Feedback on the emerging design was overwhelmingly positive, with 86% of participants expressing support for the proposals. Respondents welcomed several elements of the design vision, including:

• Pedestrianisation and improved walkability
• Enhanced cycling infrastructure
• Increased planting and green space
• Features that support year‑round use and weather resilience

Participants also offered constructive recommendations concerning:

• Accessibility and universal design
• Functionality and flexibility of civic spaces
• Safety, movement, and operational considerations

This feedback provides essential guidance for the next stage of design development.

How the Feedback Will Shape the Project

The insights gathered through both phases form a key part of the evidence base guiding the refinement of the Grow College Green preliminary design. The design team will now focus on:

• Strengthening accessibility and inclusive design outcomes
• Enhancing the quality and functionality of proposed public spaces
• Refining materials, planting, and spatial layouts
• Further developing proposals for movement, access, and safety

These refinements will support the ongoing Grow College Green project, ensuring that the final design reflects public aspirations and meets the needs of residents, workers, businesses, and visitors.

Next Steps

The Emerging Design Consultation Report concludes this stage of public engagement. Dublin City Council will continue developing the preliminary design, incorporating the views expressed during this consultation phase. Further public engagement opportunities will be provided as the project advances.