In November 2022, funding was approved to assist the Technological Universities in developing a student accommodation programme based on a regional needs and feasibility assessment. The Higher Education Authority appointed consultants to oversee and assess the levels of supply and demand for student accommodation across our public higher education institutions.
The objective of the feasibility study is to establish an accurate “as is” account of available student accommodation supply; project future supply and demand for accommodation; and to ascertain what opportunities are available to meet the future demand for student accommodation.
Initial submissions from the TU Sector to increase supply of student accommodation, including those submitted by ATU Mayo, in respect of the military barracks in Castlebar are currently being reviewed and progressed by the Higher Education Authority with final business cases due to the Department in Q2, 2025.
Timelines are contingent on all parties involved being in a position to resource and deliver work packages in an efficient and expedient manner.
ATU Mayo facilitates approx. 1,000 students. Since 2017, there have been no private or publicly funded purpose built student accommodation beds completed in Mayo. At present, there are no planning applications granted or awaiting decision for purpose built student accommodation in Mayo.
As of the 30th of October 2024, approximately 30 'digs' beds within the Castlebar area are listed by ATU Mayo's Student Union as being available to rent.
