A much-delayed plan to turn College Green into a pedestrian-only civic plaza has been rejected by planning bosses.
An Bord Pleanála has refused permission for the multi-million euro proposal, which would have banned all cars and put severe restrictions on buses and taxis.
In its decision, the authority agreed the overall idea would "significantly enhance the amenity and attractiveness" of the area.
However, it argued that pedestrianisation could have a “significant and negative” impact on bus passengers, and taxis trying to get tourists to local hotels.
The planning authority also said that it had "unacceptable" safety concerns regarding cyclists, pedestrians, buses and emergency vehicles.
A decision on the long-awaited project had suffered many delays, with An Bord Pleanála explaining that it was a "highly complex and unique" case.
In the last update, the planning authority had given itself until Halloween to announce a decision, but that has now happened sooner.
Green Party Councillor, Ciaran Cuffe, said he was "saddened" to hear the College Green Plaza project has been turned down.
"Back to the drawing board. We still desperately need more car-free child-friendly spaces in Dublin City", he tweeted.
