History of aras an uachtarain

jonniebgood1

Plans to demolish aras an uachtarain were abandoned in 1939 after beginning of WWII. De Valera and his Finance minister baulked at the estimated cost. The history of the building from Vicerol lodge through to its current role is interesting with plenty of intrigue along the line (Phoenix park murders, Royal visits/ potential Royal visits, demolition)

from http://www.president.ie/index.php?section=21&detailed=1&lang=eng

There was major resistance to the use of Vice Regal Lodge as the official residence of the President. The power of the old associations still resonated throughout Irish society. Various houses were considered but found wanting. Particular attention was devoted to St. Anne's in Clontarf, the former residence of Lady Ardilaun then occupied by Bishop Plunkett but when it was found that Dublin Corporation were negotiating with him for the acquisition of its gardens as a public park, the search continued elsewhere "Ashton" in Castleknock was considered and "South Hill" at Milltown but there was always some difficulty.

Finally, and with enormous reluctance, it was decided that Vice Regal Lodge would have to be used probably on a temporary basis. Its name was changed to Aras as Uachtarain and, in 1939, President Hyde planted a tree in the grounds, a symbolic act that initiated the new era that the house was about to experience as it became the permanent official residence of the Presidents of Ireland.

Any idea of the proposed new buildings Plans?
Any further information of the building, etc, appreciated.