The Burren Risks Shutdown in Davis Square Tower Plan

A Tower Looms Over Davis Square

A 25-story tower could rise at 247 Elm St. in Davis Square, delivering 500 apartments. The Burren, a pub where Celtic acts have played on its weathered stage since the ’90s, faces an uncertain future in the plan. Construction could shutter it for over a year—or beyond.

The Developer’s Plan

Copper Mill, the developer behind the project, targets the site, owned by Myer Dana and Sons. The building would include 100 affordable units and retail space below. To clear the way, a row of businesses—The Burren, Dragon Pizza, McKinnon’s Meat Market, Martsa on Elm, and Kung Fu Tea—would pause or close during the build. Copper Mill wants The Burren and Dragon Pizza back as tenants after, with rent unchanged. They’ve offered to move and reinstall The Burren’s interior—tables, wood paneling, the works—to keep its soul intact.

The Burren’s Reality

The Burren’s building demands updates: better access, larger bathrooms, ground-floor storage. That could take 12 to 15 months, the developer estimates. Even without this project, its age might force a closure within five years. The other three businesses lean toward shutting down for good if the plan proceeds.

Community Splits

Copper Mill pitched the idea to the Davis Square Neighborhood Association last fall. The response splits the area. Greater Boston craves affordable housing—a University of Massachusetts Amherst/WCVB poll backs that up—but locals debate the tower’s fit on Elm Street. Some see it dwarfing the neighborhood’s charm; others welcome the units. Celtic musicians tied to The Burren’s gigs worry a long closure could unplug their scene.

A Familiar Crossroads

Elm Street’s been a development target before. A push for 250 apartments and lab space collapsed years ago, with The Burren’s fate in the mix then too. Now, no formal proposal has landed with the city. A zoning shift and public review would come first. Copper Mill and the neighborhood association have met monthly since October. The last session spilled over, so they’re scouting a bigger spot and adding a virtual link for the next one.

What’s Next

The Burren’s next chapter hinges on how Davis Square balances housing against its cultural pulse.