Max HeyraudSome potentially positive news for Dublin’s nightlife and cultural landscape.
Dublin City Council is considering acquiring the former home of The Complex in Smithfield, a move that could return the site to public ownership following the multidisciplinary arts venue’s closure earlier this year.
The proposal emerged after a previously anticipated private sale of the property did not proceed. At a recent meeting of Dublin City Council’s Central Area Committee, Green Party councillor Janet Horner called on the local authority to work with the Departments of Culture and Housing to purchase the site, arguing that it could accommodate both a permanent cultural venue and social, affordable or cost-rental housing.
The discussion follows months of campaigning to save The Complex after its closure was announced. Director Vanessa Fielding previously sought a public-private partnership to secure the venue’s future, including meetings with former Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe, but no funding agreement was reached before the organisation vacated the premises.
Social Democrats culture spokesperson Sinéad Gibney described the closure as part of a wider pattern of instability affecting arts centres across Ireland, arguing that existing cultural infrastructure should be protected rather than replaced after it is lost.
No decision has yet been made on whether Dublin City Council will proceed with an acquisition. Any proposal is expected to depend on the outcome of the feasibility study and discussions between the council and central government.
