A major step towards reimagining Dublin’s city centre was taken today as MEP Regina Doherty met with newly elected Councillor Lord Mayor Ray McAdam at the Mansion House to discuss the future of Drury Street and the urgent need for a new vision for the city’s streets.
Doherty was joined by architect Federico Minieri, whose innovative redesign proposals have gained public and political attention.
The meeting centred on Minieri’s plans for Drury Street as a green, pedestrian-friendly space, and on the broader opportunity to create more welcoming public areas where people can meet, socialise, and spend time. Doherty has been a strong advocate for shifting Dublin’s urban design towards a more European model that prioritises people and makes space for vibrant city life.
The campaign she has championed continues to gain support among city stakeholders and the wider public. She also highlighted the importance of bringing a strong European Union perspective to the conversation, one that reflects best practice from across the continent and leverages EU support to help reimagine how we design public space in Ireland.
Speaking after the meeting, Doherty said, “This can’t be another nice idea that gathers dust. If we’re serious about making Dublin a city for people, not just for traffic, then we need to act.”
Minieri’s plans draw inspiration from cities like Milan and Paris, where redesigns have transformed congested areas into vibrant public spaces that boost local business, sustainability, and quality of life.
The Lord Mayor echoed the urgency of the moment, saying: “This is the kind of creative, forward-thinking dialogue we need to make Dublin a city for the next generation, one that works for everyone.”
Doherty added, “We can’t keep kicking young people to the kerb, literally and politically. It’s time to build a capital that reflects European values: liveability, accessibility, and public space that puts people first. Drury Street can lead the way.”
Minieri said: “Dublin needs bold, people-first leadership, supported by a long-term, coordinated plan for the entire city. I believe our new Lord Mayor has the vision and courage to rise to that challenge. This campaign is my way of contributing, with a plan that reflects the needs of all Dubliners and supports a more liveable, inclusive city.”