Campaign grows to save former Dublin arts venue
The future of a much-loved Dublin arts venue could be back on the table, as fresh proposals aim to bring the former cultural hub back into public ownership after its closure earlier this year.
Date published: 29th Jul 2026
Fresh calls have been made for Dublin venue The Complex to be saved after the popular cultural space closed its doors earlier this year.
The Smithfield venue, which previously housed performance spaces, an art gallery, a jazz club and artists' studios, ceased trading in January after receiving notice to leave the building.
Now, Green Party councillor Janet Horner has urged Dublin City Council and the Irish Government to acquire the site, proposing it be redeveloped as a permanent arts and cultural venue with social and affordable housing on the upper floors.
According to the council, discussions are underway to explore the site's future, with its housing department investigating potential redevelopment options. A feasibility study will be carried out before any decisions are made.
The proposal has also received backing from politicians across a number of parties. Social Democrats culture spokesperson Sinéad Gibney said the closure highlights the growing pressure facing arts venues across Ireland, while People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy called for the building to remain a dedicated cultural space alongside new social housing.
The Complex closed on Wednesday 14th January after efforts to secure its future proved unsuccessful, with its director previously saying that no workable solution could be found despite discussions with government representatives.
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Header image credit: The Complex Dublin / Facebook.com