Shoppers bustle. The air hums with chatter. We are standing at the ILAC Centre, Dublin’s pioneering city center shopping destination. Opened in 1981, the ILAC Centre holds a special place in Dubliners’ hearts.
The ILAC Centre was one of the first of its kind in Dublin. It offered a new shopping experience. Its name comes from the Irish Life Assurance Company. Irish Life was instrumental in its development.
But there’s more to the ILAC Centre than meets the eye. To build it, many old laneways vanished. Riddle’s Row and Little Denmark Street were demolished. Even the street where radio station 2RN first broadcast disappeared. Four markets were lost forever.
Imagine the scene. Over 100 buildings gone. The sounds of demolition echoing through the city. It changed the area forever. The street traders of Moore Street were not consulted about the new centre. Despite the upheaval, the ILAC Centre rose.
Initially, grand plans were proposed. They included retail and office space. There were to be two 14-story blocks. A theatre, cinemas, restaurants and bars were also planned. The final design was scaled back. The project was reduced to 200,000 square feet.
In 1985, the library opened. It was a welcome addition to the ILAC Centre. When it opened, the ILAC Centre boasted Ireland’s first glass lifts.
In recent years, the ILAC Centre underwent a €60 million refurbishment. It transformed into a bright and airy shopping venue. Today, it houses over 80 stores. You can find TK Maxx and the Liverpool FC Store. You will also find Dealz and Starbucks. Major brands such as Debenhams, Dunnes Stores, River Island and H&M are here.
Dublin’s Central Library also calls the ILAC Centre home. Here, you can find language learning facilities. A Music Library and a Business Library are also available.
The ILAC Centre has adapted to change. It continues to be a vital part of Dublin’s retail landscape. The ILAC Centre remains a popular shopping destination.