Meath school applies for major expansion to improve SEN facilities
Culmullen National School has submitted a comprehensive planning application to Meath County Council for a substantial school extension and site upgrade at the school’s campus in Drumree.
The proposed development includes a new single-storey extension to the south-west side of the existing school building, with a total floor area of 553 square metres.
The plan provides for a new mainstream classroom along with two state-of-the-art Special Educational Needs (SEN) classrooms, each equipped with quiet spaces, toilet and shower facilities, and storage.
The mixed school is situated in a rural setting beside Culmullen Church in the parish of Dunshaughlin. It was originally a country two teacher school but was extended in the 1970's. It was further extended and completely refurbished in 2011.
Meanwhile this application will also feature an entrance lobby, a changing places toilet, a central activities area, a multi-activity room, a daily living skills space, an extended principal’s office, administration facilities, staff toilets, a cleaner’s sluice room, and a plant room.
There will also be an expansion of the existing staff car park to provide six additional spaces, two of which will feature electric vehicle charging points. A dedicated SEN pupil drop-off area is also proposed, with a vehicle and pedestrian ramp providing safe access to the existing school bus park.
To ensure compliance with safety regulations, the existing school entrance is set to be widened to accommodate emergency fire brigade access.
The development also proposes a number of important utility and environmental upgrades. These include the capping of the existing water well and the installation of a new well that will connect to the school’s current water supply. A new septic tank and percolation field will be installed along with associated drainage works to support the upgraded facilities.
Outdoor improvements form a key part of the plan, with the inclusion of a secure soft play area and a sensory garden, offering enhanced recreational spaces for students, particularly for those with additional educational needs.