Big step forward this week as Athy College hopes to double capacity with big new development

There was good news for the Athy area earlier this week when it was confirmed that the proposed development at Athy College has taken a major step forward after a Schedule of Accommodation was issued by the Department of Education for the new build.

The extension to the school would more than double the capacity, bringing the total number of students from 450 to 1,000, with 20 new classrooms, four science labs, a music suite and a custom built special needs accommodation and much more. A much larger sports hall will also be constructed if the development comes to pass.

“We are delighted that the Department has responded so promptly to our extraordinary growth,” said Principal Richard Daly.

“Athy college opened its doors on the new campus in 2010 and has trebled student numbers in the eight year period and is installing 3 temporary classrooms this September to meet demand in the interim.”

Chairperson of Athy Board of Management Cllr Aoife Breslin paid tribute to the committed staff and management of the school, which she remarked “has been the education success story of South Kildare. Not only is this an outstanding opportunity for future generations it also represents the most significant financial investment in the town in many years. The availability of school places makes Athy a more desirable location for people to live and the increase in employment will have a huge spin off to local business.”