RTE weighs in on proposed move to GPO as part of Dublin city centre revival plans

Up to ten proposals were made as part of the publication of the Dublin City Centre Taskforce for initiatives to revive Dublin city centre.

RTE has reacted to proposals it could be set to move some of the station into Dublin’s GPO. Up to ten proposals were made as part of the publication of the Dublin City Centre Taskforce for initiatives to revive Dublin city centre, including recommendations for O’Connell Street with a particular focus on the GPO building.

It is recommended the GPO should be redeveloped as a major public building with a decision on future use by the end of next March.

Proposals were made to the taskforce for its use which include relocating RTÉ there, or putting a museum or Government department in the post office building.

But a spokesman for RTE said: “We have noted that this is one of the options set out in the report. The plans relating to the future development of RTÉ's Donnybrook campus and investment in Cork studios, as approved by the RTÉ Board are outlined in RTÉ's five-year strategy."

READ MORE: Anna Geary reveals new RTE Ireland's Fittest Family challenges that left coaches 'panicked'

READ MORE: RTE Liveline star Joe Duffy defends 'genius' Brendan O'Carroll - saying Mrs Brown's Boys star isn't 'a racist'

It comes after Ray D’Arcy said he thinks it “makes sense” that RTE Radio move to the famous city centre landmark.

He told listeners: “In our team, everybody voted yes, well bar Grace. She would have to move house a little bit, but she is considering it. Back in 1928, Radio Eireann broadcasted from the GPO, right up until the early 70s.

“Between 1925 and 1928 there was a studio in Little Denmark street in Dublin… but from 1928 the HQ of RTE was in the GPO. Even in the intervening years back in 1988 when Dublin was celebrating its millennium. 1000 years in the city, millennium radio was set up at the back of the GPO where the GPO arcade is. So there is a history there.

“It makes complete sense. On a serious note, I think it would be great for both parties, I think, RTE radio in particular would benefit from being in the city and feeding off the energy that is a capital city as opposed to being a good bit out in the campus away from it all in a little bubble.

“I think having RTE on O’Connell Street would do wonders for the street as well. So it gets a big thumbs up from here. We’d love to be in the GPO. Definitely the GPO is big enough to house radio studios.”

Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.