The need for a central bus station in Dublin was identified first by the magazine the "Irish Builder and Engineer" in 1937, citing the large volume of passengers waiting for buses out of Dublin along the quays without shelter or other facilities. Four potential locations were identified for the new station: Store Street, Aston Quay, Wood Quay, and Haymarket, Smithfield. Due to the location and low cost, and proximity to two roads, the Store Street site was selected by the Irish Omnibus Company. The site was also close to Amiens Street train station, and the ferry terminals at Dublin Port. The Store Street site was placed between the warehouses and stores of the Dublin docklands and the 18th century Custom House. The site was purchased for £13,000.