Busaras – The Nation’s Bus Stop

Producer Zoe Comyns talks to the people that work in and pass through Dublin’s central bus station and find out what an average day in Busáras is like.

When Busáras was built between 1945 and 1953, it was built against a background of public opposition which centred on the external appearance, function and excessive cost – over £1,000,000 before completion in 1953.

Busáras was the first major work of modern architecture in post-war Dublin, and its architectural significance was immediately recognised outside Ireland.

The building was designed to house a bus terminus and transport company offices; it also featured a small newsreel cinema to occupy travelers. Constructed of reinforced concrete with Portland stone cladding, Busaras remains one of the landmarks of modern architecture in Ireland.

Busáras, the nations bus stop was produced by Zoe Comyns, broadcast assistant Maria Delaney with thanks to Pat Laffin, Niall Scott and all the staff of Busáras.

The programme was made with the support of the Sound and Vision funding, a BAI Initiative.