‘It deserves a future’ – Plans to transform historic school in Meath into community centre
Plans to turn the historic Old Gilson School in Oldcastle into a new community centre were presented to local councillors at a recent meeting.
At the October meeting of the Kells Municipal District, councillors received a deputation from the Oldcastle Community Development Association (OCDA), which hopes to restore and repurpose the landmark 19th-century building to provide much-needed community facilities for the town.
Built in 1832, the original Gilson School served generations of pupils before being replaced by the current Gilson National School in 1977.
The association now wants to breathe new life into the old structure, describing it as an “iconic and historic building at the heart of Oldcastle.”
“The Old Gilson School could become a wonderful community hub and focal point,” said Tracey Holsgrove of the OCDA.
“We don’t have a community centre or a central space that’s open for everyone. This building is part of Oldcastle’s history, and it deserves a future.”
Ms Holsgrove explained that the structure consists of a central building and two wings, both of which are in poor condition.
“The roof is caving in on those two wings,” she said.
Under the OCDA’s proposal, the central section would continue to serve an educational purpose — in keeping with the original Laurence Gilson endowment — potentially providing space for classes and community offices. One wing could house a heritage centre, while the other might serve as a social hub for events and gatherings.
“We’re very keen to celebrate our heritage and culture,” Ms Holsgrove added.
“There’s a lot of goodwill in the community for this project, and it would cater for people of all ages, especially as new housing continues to be built in the area.”
Meanwhile, Director of Services Darragh McGowan said that if the building posed a risk due to its deteriorating condition, it could be prioritised for funding. He confirmed he would visit the site in Oldcastle to assess its condition.