Big boost for families as new childcare facility in Leitrim gets planning approval

Planning permission has been granted for the development of a new childcare facility in South Leitrim amid a nationwide childcare crisis.

In January, Eivers Lane Childcare CLG sought permission from Leitrim County Council for the change of use of an existing dwelling and garage on Greed Road, Mohill, to operate as a childcare facility.

The proposal also sought the demolition of an existing shed and the construction of a new extension to accommodate the childcare facility, along with associated covered play areas and a range of internal and external alterations.

In addition, the application provides for the creation of a new access onto the public road, the development of a car park, and all associated site development works.

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Eivers Lane Childcare Centre currently operates from Main Street Upper in Mohill, where it has been in operation since 2009. The centre provides a variety of services, including a breakfast club, full-day care, half-day care, and an after-school service.

On March 5, the childcare centre was granted planning permission from Leitrim County Council, subject to 15 conditions. These conditions include that the childcare facility shall not be converted to any other use without prior planning permission in the event of it ceasing operations.

Prior to the commencement of development, archaeological test excavations must be carried out by a suitably qualified archaeologist. Works adjacent to the public footpath will require the use of pedestrian barriers to protect the public, and the developer must ensure that the development conforms to the principles of universal design and takes cognisance of the needs of persons with mobility, sensory, or intellectual impairments.

Last year, the childcare centre received €750,000 in government funding to expand its services. The funding came under the Building Blocks Extension Grant Scheme, enabling the community-based service to purchase the premises with the aim of creating 44 additional full-time early learning and childcare places for children aged one to three.

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It was the only Leitrim-based project to receive funding under the Building Blocks scheme.