The major building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is included in the Department of Education & Skills’ Construction Programme which is being delivered under the National Development Plan.
This project is currently at an advanced stage of Architectural Planning – Stage 2b (Detailed Design). This stage is arguably the most complex and detailed of all the stages in Architectural Planning. In addition to securing the necessary statutory approvals it also includes the preparation of complex and detailed tender documents.
Also there have been changes to building regulations which the Design Team has been required to incorporate into its design and tender documents.
Stage 2(b) documents previously received by the Department were deemed incomplete and were returned to the Design Team for amendment. A revised Stage 2(b) report has been reviewed by the Department and comments issued in February 2020.
At that time the Design Team was requested to review and address the Department's comments and provide updated documentation. This updated documentation has recently been received. Upon review my Department will be in contact with the school and its Design Team in relation to the further progression of the project.
The Design Team is aware of the expiry date of the current planning application and it will be applying to the Local Authority for an extension in advance.
