Architect survey rejects U2 hotel

U2 should not be allowed to go ahead with their ambitious plans to transform the Clarence Hotel, according to a survey of architects.

Online architecture discussion board, Archiseek, found that more than three-quarters of those canvassed felt that planning officials should not allow the €150m revamp of the Dublin hotel, owned by Bono and The Edge.

The supergroup has applied to Dublin City Council to demolish four neighbouring listed buildings to make the Clarence "the most spectacular hotel in Europe", erecting a skycatcher atrium, resembling a spaceship, visible from all over the city. Objectors include An Taisce and the Irish Georgian Society.

Those who logged onto Archiseek were asked: "Should the Clarence Hotel redevelopment get permission?"

The answer was a vehement 'no', with 78pc against it and just 22pc in favour.

Those who logged on blasted the plans as "awful" "rubbish" and "hideous."

One urged: "Object, object, object. It is far too bulky and would dominate everything. We have made this mistake too many times.''

Larissa Nolan
Irish Independent