MCDONALD'S has won its bid to open a new outlet in a 19th century Temple Bar building, the Herald has learnt.

The takeaway giant was celebrating today after An Bord Pleanala gave the green light for its controversial proposal.

Sources close to the process confirmed to the Herald today that the application was approved by the planning body -- after initial objections from Dublin City Council.

Some 78 jobs will now be created in Temple Bar -- with McDonald's replacing the former Frankie Dettori-owned Steakhouse & Bar.

The Herald can reveal that while the famous golden arches will be allowed in the tourist hotspot, the planning body is imposing a strict condition that it must close by midnight. The firm will also be obliged to ensure that the unique structure of the building is protected.

The ambitious plans caused serious divide in the city, with the local authority claiming it could have a "detrimental effect" on the area.

And the chief executive of Temple Bar Cultural Trust (TBCT), Dermot McLaughlin, recently said he would "abhor" the prospect.

The statement sparked a furious response from some board members who claimed it was not representative of the overall view in TBCT.

There was a mixed reaction today from local representatives in the Temple bar area.

Independent councillor for Dublin South East Mannix Flynn said the "big winners" were those seeking work.

"There will now be up to 80 new jobs created because of this and anybody who cannot see the importance in that needs to consider again," he said.

However, Fine Gael councillor Kieran Binchy said: "I'm both surprised and disappointed at the decision by An Bord Pleanala. It is not the sort of thing that will attract tourists so I certainly believe it is a backward step."

hnews@herald.ie