Should the landmark ESB chimneys at Poolbeg in Dublin be listed for protection?
The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) is to spend €250,000 on remedial works to prevent the deterioration of the landmark Poolbeg chimneys in Dublin. The chimneys built in the 1970s were decommissioned in 2006 and 2010.
Remedial work on the well-known red and white stacks, includes placing steel caps over both chimneys to prevent damage from rainwater. A decision will be made on whether more extensive works, such as painting and sealing the concrete outer shell, will be carried out.
Operations Manager at ESB Poolbeg Denis McCabe explains that the structural analysis on the 207 metre tall structures is ongoing, but early indicators suggest no significant structural issues.
Attempts have been made to have the Poolbeg chimneys declared protected structures, but this would be a costly move. Also, the Ringsend site has an operational power station, due for redevelopment.
Labour Party councillor Dermot Lacey is proposing a motion to have the chimneys included on the list of protected structures. He is heartened by the fact that the ESB is carrying out the remedial work,
It indicates that they believe they are worth saving.
Dermot Lacey hopes his colleagues on the City Council will vote for the motion.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 April 2015. The reporter John Kilraine.
