Twists and turns in bid to design capital landmark

THE 2003 international architectural competition to design the U2 Tower was mired in controversy because the winning entry couldn't be identified.

A mix-up saw the Dublin Docklands Development Authority unable to match the number assigned to the entry with a name, and instead "a stunning twisting tower design" by Blackrock-based BCDH Architects was chosen.

But the building was just 60 metres high, and in 2006 the Grand Canal Docks Planning Scheme was amended which saw the height raised to 120 metres.

The DDDA held another competition which saw four firms submit bids, including Geranger -- made up of U2 Ballymore Properties, and developer Paddy McKillen -- the Riverside Partnership, Mountbrook Homes and Treasury Holdings/Sisk.

Irish Independent

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