The “historic integrity” of Stephen’s Green must be protected in MetroLink plans, according to the Heritage Council.

Its CEO Virginia Teehan told Newstalk Breakfast this morning there are alternative options to a metro stop proposed at the public park, which attracts 4 million visitors a year.

It comes as An Bord Pleanála is hearing discussions and examinations of issues surrounding the proposed MetroLink over the next several weeks.

Ms Teehan is hopeful that the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) share the same preservation ideals as she does.

“They certainly have engaged very constructively around how the historic core of Dublin can be protected for the citizens of Dublin and Ireland,” she said.

“Stephen’s Green appears to be a sticking point and looking at what the OPW has submitted to An Bord Pleanála – they are very valid points.

“It’s a very attractive amenity that includes a playground for children right in the middle of Dublin.

“I think the protection of both the historic nature of the place itself -its nine acres - and also the public amenity is an important consideration.”

A statue of Wolfe Tone at Stephen's Green. Image: noel bennett / Alamy Stock Photo

Ms Teehan said there are “significant points” to consider in terms of preserving heritage.

“This includes the felling of trees,” she said.

“I know there are plans to move some of the statues there as well – the memorial to famine victims and Wolfe Tone.

“These are important for Ireland, our nation, so we can pause and remember our past.”

'Historic character'

Ms Teehan said MetroLink is important for the capital but it must not undermine the “historic character” of Stephen’s Green.

“It’s a central piece of infrastructure that we need to do as the city is entirely clogged up,” she said.

“There are many possible sites where that station could be located and we cannot re-create St Stephen’s Green.

“We cannot demolish the historic integrity of a place that is fragile – it’s more than physical infrastructure.”

Ms Teehan said “qualified people” in the area of heritage preservation should be allowed to provide alternative station options, other than Stephen’s Green, to TII.

MetroLink is expected to cost in the region of €9.5bn and is expected to carry 53 million passengers per year.

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Main image: An artist's impression of a proposed MetroLink station entrance at St Stephen's Green in Dublin city. Image: MetroLink