Brendan Smith
Question:673. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education when an extension project (details supplied) will proceed to the next stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2086/25]
View answerWednesday, 22 January 2025
Questions (673)
Written answers
The school referred to by the Deputy was approved to enter the departments pipeline of school buildings projects to provide the following accommodation: 8 General Classrooms, 4 Special Education Tuition rooms, 1 Music room, 1 Textiles room, 1 Art Room, 1 Project store, 1 Multimedia room, 2 Science laboratories and a Preparation area, 1 Library and a General Purpose / Dining Hall.
The project has been devolved for delivery to the school authority.
I can confirm that the project is currently at stage 2b following my departments approval to proceed to planning in Q2 of 2024. In the most recent communication with the school authority my department has been informed that the planning permission was granted in January 2025.
My department is now awaiting submission of the post planning approval Stage 2b architectural report from the school authority for review outlining the detailed design drawings and specifications within the agreed project budget and incorporating any conditions arising from statutory approval. All projects, including this one, will undergo the necessary due diligence outlined in the public Infrastructure Guidelines. Managing timing, scope, and cost is crucial to staying within budgetary limits for the overall program.
At this stage, it is not possible to predict when a significant school building project of this nature will go to construction, nor when it will be completed, as progress depends upon many contingent factors that can arise.
My department will continue to engage with the school authority to provide practical advice and assistance on this important project.