Planning application received: alter internal layouts by way of removal of handball alley, additional first floor area to the same, new stairwell, inte

A planning application has been lodged with Laois County Council for the Killenard Community Centre/Old School House in Killenard, Portarlington. The applicant seeks to alter the internal layout of the existing building by removing a handball alley and creating additional first‑floor space on the same level. A new stairwell is also proposed, together with other internal reconfigurations, amendments to the building’s elevations and associated site works.

The application was received on 5 June 2026 and carries reference number 2660344. The council has set a decision deadline of 30 July 2026, at which point it will determine whether the proposed changes meet planning regulations and community needs. No cost or funding details have been disclosed in the submission.

The Killenard site is part of a broader pattern of development activity within County Laois, where the council has recently approved projects ranging from office buildings to residential extensions. While the current application focuses on internal alterations rather than new construction, it follows the same procedural framework used for other community‑based proposals.

Residents and stakeholders will be able to review the full planning documents through the council’s online portal. The decision process will consider factors such as building safety, accessibility, and the impact on surrounding properties. If approved, the changes would allow the centre to better serve its users by providing more flexible space for events and activities.

For further details, see the Laois County Council Planning application reference 2660344.

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