Large extension proposed for Carndonagh Community School

Carndonagh Community School has submitted a planning application for a major new extension aimed at enhancing facilities for students with additional educational needs.

The school is seeking permission for a new detached Special Education Needs (SEN) building, complete with a sensory garden and a soft play area, all enclosed with perimeter guarding. The development is being proposed in response to a significant increase in student enrolment in recent years.

The application, submitted by school principal John McGuinness, also includes plans to convert an existing store into a new access link, featuring an external door to connect the current school buildings with the proposed SEN facility.

In addition, permission is being sought for extra car parking spaces, connections to existing foul and surface water drainage systems, and a range of associated site works. These include retaining walls, new lighting, and other necessary infrastructure works within the school grounds.

Principal John McGuinness outlined in the cover letter as part of the application that the proposed facility will provide an environment that aligns with the current standards set by the Department of Education and Youth for the education and care of children with additional special educational needs. 

“The new building has been a long-term objective of the school, and its delivery will enable us to support, educate, and care for the children in our community who require enhanced specialist provision.”

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A decision on the planning application is expected from the planning authority by February 12.