Dublin Airport Parking Ramp Demolition Blocked
Planning Commission Upholds Refusal to Demolish Dublin Airport’s Brutalist Spiral Ramps
The operator of Dublin Airport, DAA, has been denied permission to demolish distinctive spiral parking ramps at the hub, following a decision by An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) that upheld an earlier refusal by Fingal co Council. The ACP concluded that the ramps are an integral part of Dublin Airport’s architectural heritage and contribute considerably to the visual amenity of the approach to Terminal 1 (T1).
The ACP’s decision highlights 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.” This includes revealing the prominent architectural elements of the energy center, currently screened by the ramps, thereby eroding the character of the area.
Constructed in 1972 as part of the then-new T1, the spiral ramps are noted for their concrete finish, a hallmark of the brutalist architectural period. Despite not being a protected structure, the ACP recognized their “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.”
The commission’s order, signed by commissioner paul caprani, stated that in the absence of sufficient evidence or justification, the proposed demolition contravenes policies within the Fingal County Growth Plan aimed at protecting architectural heritage.
The DAA had argued in its appeal that demolishing the ramps would “unlock a critical development opportunity at the core of the Dublin Airport campus.” Vincent Harrison, Chief Commercial and Development Officer, told the appeals commission that removing “redundant, deteriorating structures” was a strategic move to facilitate future airport development. He emphasized the site’s value, situated centrally between two terminals and at the heart of the eastern campus, especially given the finite land resources available.A DAA spokesperson expressed surprise and disappointment at the ACP’s decision,noting that the spiral ramps had not been identified as significant heritage assets in previous reviews or national surveys,nor where they included on the record of protected structures in the most recent Fingal Development Plan update. The spokesperson added that the ramps have been out of use for many years and have deteriorated, with their removal intended to enhance infrastructure and ensure safety and efficiency.The DAA stated it would review the decision and consider its next steps.