The Irish Times

The redevelopment of O'Connell Street in Dublin, which has caused huge disruption to traffic and pedestrians for the last four years, is due to be completed next May, six months ahead of schedule. The final phase of construction, at the northern end of the street, began on April 26th this year; it was estimated it would continue for 18 months. However, the city council said the work had been accelerated and was now scheduled for earlier completion. The first phase of the regeneration of the capital's main street began in 2001 and was completed late last year. It involved the creation of a central plaza outside the GPO and the installation of the Spire. This second phase comprises the area of Upper O'Connell Street from the junction of Henry Street-North Earl Street northwards to Parnell Street. It also includes the east side of Lower O'Connell Street from Abbey Street Lower southwards to Eden Quay.