Bono has helped launch a competition to design a Dublin tower which will
include U2's new recording studio.




The landmark tower, 60m in height, will be built alongside the River Liffey
in Dublin's Docklands.




The band have been in discussion with the Docklands Development Authority
since last year when the Authority announced plans to redevelop land where
the band's longtime recording studio at Hanover Quay is based.




Architects from Ireland and overseas will now compete for the design of a
new tower to provide offices, a bar and restaurant - and two floors for the
recording studio. The band will nominate one of its members ­ Bono has
already tipped Adam - to serve on the judging panel for the tower designs.



He told The Irish Times the most important thing was the tower should be
'very imaginative' and qualify as a 'great building'.

'The developers are right to reclaim the river. We had the Grand Canal on
the front cover of our second album, so it's always been special
to us.

'I spent many times walking around the area while we were recording, just
contemplating things and taking time out. It's great that we can stay in the
area and continue to be inspired by its mystery.'





Catch this RTE news report on the launch where Bono speaks about the new
plans.

www.rte.ie