U2 Defend Their Dublin Skyscraper Plans

U2 have defended their plans to build a skyscraper in the heart of Dublin after criticism from environmental groups.

Irish heritage group An Taisce has called for a public consultation on the project because of concerns about the environmental impact on the area.

The building, which has been labelled the U2 Tower, does not require planning permission as the development is part of a massive regeneration scheme which had been given the green light by authorities.

Speaking about the project in a statement following the criticism The Edge said: "It will have positive influence on the perspective of Dublin internationally and encourage further financial investment in the city centre.

"It is also the intention to build Europe's most sustainable hotel in the heart of Ireland's capital. The design is environmentally as well as architecturally progressive."

According to reports the blueprints for the tower include a huge penthouse studio for U2.