U2 begins pre-production on ... skyscraper?

U2 has filed an application with the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) for the so-called U2 Tower on Dublin's south Docklands, according to the Irish Times. The proposed 30-story building is said to consist mostly of apartments, but its top section will contain a penthouse recording studio for the group that will bring the building's height to more than 420 feet above street level, making it taller than the next tallest building in the Irish city.

A dedicated elevator will lead directly from the studio to the ground level of the building.

The structure, which is scheduled to be completed by 2009, will include 182 deluxe one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with "stunning views of the bay and back out towards the mountain," according to the DDDA's director of architecture. Prices are expected to reach the millions. It is not known whether any of the members of U2 will take up residence in the building.

U2 will release a compilation album on November 21st featuring a brand new song, as well as the band's studio collaboration with Green Day on a cover of "The Saints Are Coming" by Scottish act the Skids.

The group is working on material for its next album and will resume its Vertigo world tour on November 7th in Australia.