Aerial view of what the new school campus will look like.

Green light for school expansions

2 Cork schools have this week announced their expansion with a new building project.

St Aloysius’ College, post primary school, and Scoil Chlochair Mhuire National School, Carrigtwohill have announced they have secured Department of Education approval for a new school campus.

This design has evolved growing from a single extension with a value of approximately €8 million to a campus design containing 2 new schools with a value of approximately €35 million.

The schools sought to deliver a future proof campus with adequate parking and pedestrian solutions for both schools. The new schools are designed almost as civic infrastructure seeking to make connections to the main street of Carrigtwohill to become a vibrant educational centre within the heart of this thriving town.

The educational facilities are complemented by hard court, grass and other playing areas for both schools at a build expenditure of €26 million and €9 million respectively.

Commencement of construction is scheduled for late 2024 with a 2 year split phased build time expected.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin made the official announcement at a special ceremony in St Aloysius’ College.

He said: “As a Government, we have been well aware of the demand for school places in East Cork and the Minister for Education has at all times sought to find solutions to this. Together with the other school building projects in Carrigtwohill, we believe the additional spaces at post-primary level in particular will mean St Aloysius College will be able to meet the huge demand they have for entry into the college.”

Principal of St Aloysius’ College Sean Twomey thanked those involved: “We can only thank the Taoiseach and the Minister for Education, the investment that has been shown by the Government in delivering top class educational facilities to Carrigtwohill is much appreciated and will allow us to look forward to providing our staff and students with the very best of facilities.”

Principal of Scoil Chlochair Mhuire Nora Moran added: “We are delighted to see progress being made on a planned new building for Scoil Chlochair Mhuire and are really excited by what lies ahead.”