Work to begin next week on conversion of Offaly shop to day centre

WORK to convert a former clothing store to a day centre for people with people with intellectual disability is due to start next week.

Nua Healthcare Services will operate a Continuous Learning and Development Hub (CLaD) at Main Street in Tullamore.

Permission for change of use of the building was granted in January and a commencement notice said the work will begin on April 22.

Nua says its CLaD hubs are designed to offer structured programmes and safe, nurturing environments that empower participants through education, skill-building, and social engagement.

In its planning application for change of use of the premises, Nua said: “The CLaD Hub model is built around the philosophy of providing continuous learning opportunities in small, focused groups, ensuring that each participant receives tailored support. Our curriculum includes a broad range of subjects such as Numeracy, Literacy, Digital Literacy, Independent Living Skills, and Health & Wellbeing, offered at basic, intermediate, and advanced levels to suit varying abilities. Each session is facilitated in groups of no more than eight students to promote a positive learning environment and encourage peer interaction.”

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The hubs are open between 9am and 5pm and Nua already has centres in Westmeath, Kildare, Cork and Dublin.

The Tullamore CLaD hub will be located in a ground floor unit on Main Street which also has a shopfront facing Millennium Square.

Nua says its curriculum will be designed to cater to the specific needs of the local community: “In addition to core subjects, the Tullamore Hub will include unique extracurricular activities based on local interests and resources, enriching the learning experience and providing participants with opportunities to develop new skills. Once established, the Tullamore Hub will not only serve current clients but will also be open to individuals from external organizations, fostering community engagement and providing a shared space for growth and development.”