Commercial property fund IPUT has been granted planning permission to redevelop a Victorian warehouse on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, creating 70K SF of new office space which it will develop speculatively.

The listed building was originally used for importing tropical fruit and was also previously owned by U2, housing offices and handling fan mail for the band.

Designed by Henry J Lyons, the Tropical Fruit Warehouse scheme will involve the restoration of the original structure and the construction of a new six-storey office block at the rear. The design also incorporates two fully glazed, cantilevered floors that will appear to float above the warehouse structure.

IPUT has promised significant investment in the public realm, with the creation of a “vibrant pedestrian connection” between the River Liffey and Whitaker Square that will include a café and an artist studio at street level.

Construction is due to start in the next three months, with delivery scheduled for Q4 2020.

“The Tropical Fruit Warehouse will be an exceptional building, a cutting-edge, efficient modern office space which also incorporates a thoughtful restoration of the historic warehouse buildings,” IPUT Chief Executive Niall Gaffney said. “This redevelopment will complement our existing office holdings in the immediate vicinity which extend to over 600K SF.

“We are excited about the unique letting opportunity that the Tropical Fruit Warehouse represents which will further support the anticipated 20% growth in our dividends over the next three to five years.”

Andrew Cunningham of Savills and Aisling Tannam of Cushman & Wakefield have been appointed joint letting agents on the scheme.