Richard Bruton
Question:526. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education the status of the masterplan for the new build for a school (details supplied) in Swords; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14945/24]
View answerTuesday, 9 April 2024
Questions (526)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware responsibility for delivering a major project for the school in question has been devolved to Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education & Training Board (DDLETB). The Department of Education originally approved the construction of a standalone extension of just over 4,000m2 in area to include a 2-classroom Special Education needs base. Some works to the existing building were also included in this approval. A number of significant issues have unfortunately arisen, including delays in obtaining statutory consents from the local authority and delays to the finalisation of the detailed design process for the project as it was originally approved. The project was brought to Stage 2b of the architectural process.
However, at that point it was agreed between DDLETB and the Department to proceed with an alternative proposal for the progression of the project as set out by DDLETB. This alternative involves the demolition and replacement of the existing building but also allows the provision of accommodation for another school on the site. Based on a report provided by DDLETB, it was agreed following meetings between the Department and DDLETB that the project should be redesigned on that basis. The Department has been reviewing the next steps in the progression of the project and I am pleased to advise the Deputy that this feasibility study has been completed, shared with the DDLETB and my Department is currently considering the optimum means to provide a new school building for St Finian’s Community College.
In this regard, my Department has and will continue to work closely with the school authority, Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education & Training Board in order to identify the most appropriate solution for the wider education community in the area.
As the project is at an early stage in the delivery process, it is not possible at this time to give a date for completion.
Pending completion of the main building project, the Department has approved the provision of a Home Economics Room, an Art Room, and a Toilet Block through the Department’s Framework of Modular Accommodation Providers. The school has put contingency arrangements in place to make best use of existing accommodation until the modular accommodation is ready to be occupied.