Permission granted for large school extension in Kilkenny

Permission has been granted for a large extension to Coláiste Abhainn Rí post-primary school in Callan, County Kilkenny.

The proposed building is described in the original planning application as being 'of generally two storeys in height' to include a Specialist Educational Needs Unit, six classrooms, specialist teaching rooms, support spaces and a single storey link to the existing school building.

External play and yard spaces were also planned as well as a new school access road from the south-west corner of the site off Flaggy Lane and a separate independent access road to St Mary’s Convent off Flaggy Lane.

Permission had also been sought for the relocation of an existing grotto on site, the reopening of pedestrian access path from Kilkenny Road and the demolition of an existing single storey study hall and all related site and ancillary related works. 

The local authority subsequently requested many items of further information and clarifications from the applicant.

Permission was finally granted to the application by Kilkenny County Council, subject to 18 conditions, on May 20.