TV3 begins to spread wings with plans for new television studio

By Laura Lyne

TV3 is seeking to extend its permission to change the use of a logistics facility at its base on Ballymount Road, with a view to developing a new television studio.

The plans, initially granted permission back in November 2011, are for the change of use of the 2286.7 sq m facility to accommodate a television studio with associated technical support facility and office use building.

It will also see the extension of the internal first floor area of the building by 794.8 sq m, along with the construction of a new entrance and provision for 13 additional car-parking spaces.

A decision on whether permission will be extended is due from South Dublin County Council by September 27.

In its application, TV3 Group said: “Initially the work wasn’t carried out because the growth plans were constrained by the economic conditions (recession) and the slower-than-expected recovery in the television advertising market, which meant the facilities weren’t required as soon as initially envisaged.

“Subsequent to that, TV3 was going through a takeover process that was also extended due to the arrival of UTV Ireland in the Irish television landscape.

“TV3 was finally acquired in December 2015 and since then post-acquisition integration and long-term planning has also been undertaken before significant investment plans were approved and effected.”

According to the application, the proposed works are expected to be completed by August 2020.