MEPA approves wire mesh structure around University library

The Planning Authority has given conditional approval for the building of a stainless steel wire mesh around the University library to protect it from the sun.

The mesh will replace a concrete and ceramic structure which was demolished a year ago because bits were falling off and it had become a hazard.

The Authority’s Planning Directorate had objected to the wire mesh proposal made by architect Alex Torpiano, insisting that something similar to the old structure, which had been unique, should be built.

During a meeting this morning, the board was told that urgent action needed to be taken because the structure of the University library was basically a glass box and unless its valuable books were protected from the sun, they would be damaged.

Mr Torpiano argued that had this wire mesh structure been available in the 1960s, it would have been used instead of the concrete and ceramic, because it was more durable. The new proposal was actually a development of the original design philosphy, He also argued that finding the proper material for the rebuilding of the original structure was now very difficult, but he was also confident that the mesh structure he was proposing would be acceptable.

Mr Torpiano also pointed out that the wire mesh, costing some €200,000, was considerably cheaper than reproducing the old structure.

In counter arguments, the board also heard that the new structure would alter the visual appearance of the library, which, although not a scheduled building, had been unique.

The board decided to grant an 18-month period for the wire mesh structure. Six months were being allowed for research into whether the old structure could be rebuilt with similar materials, with a year being allowed for the review if materials were found to be available.

Should the old structure be rebuilt, the wire mesh can be dismantled and reused.