Bank of Ireland confirmed yesterday that it is looking for several new premises in Dublin, including a head office in a prime city-centre location.

The bank said that following a review of its accommodation in Dublin it had instructed property agents CBRE to advise the market that it would be seeking expressions of interest for a head office building and other properties for support functions. All properties will be in Dublin and the group will start looking next month, although the process may take a few months to complete.

The bank said it was issuing the notice immediately to enable property developers to begin preparation for a full tender process. Such a process would allow the bank to assess what options were available to accommodate its future growth plans and provide an efficient, modern and quality working environment for employees.

The bank last year agreed to sell its Dublin headquarters on Baggot Street for €200 million.