Further information requested as wait continues for Grange PPS to be granted green light for extensive works

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A decision regarding an application for planning permission lodged on behalf of Grange Post Primary School has been delayed following a request by the county council for further information to be provided.

The request for further information follows on from correspondence submitted by Uisce Eireann as part of the planning process in which it stated, “It is Uisce Éireann’s view that there is insufficient information submitted with the plans and particulars.

"The applicant shall engage with Uisce Éireann by submitting a pre–Connection Enquiry (PCE) to assess feasibility of connection to the public water / wastewater infrastructure. The outcome of the PCE shall be submitted to the planning authority as a response to Further Information Request.”

The planning application seeks permission for the demolition of a boat shed, storerooms and the entrance lobby while permission is also sought for the removal of the existing modular toilet block located on the school yard and two modular classrooms to the north of the site.

If planning permission is granted, the long awaited school upgrade will see local students served by significantly improved school infrastructure with permission sought for the construction and alteration of the existing school building for a new two storey extension at the north of the site consisting of 11 classrooms including all ancillary accommodation and an entrance canopy.

It is hoped the proposed development will also see the construction of a single storey extension to provide special education needs accommodation with an attached external soft play area to the southwestern side of the site.

Also included in the planning application is for the relocation of the southern boundary wall along main road (L3204) to provide a bus drop off lane. There will also be construction of carparking within the main vehicle entrance with an associated EV charge point while reconfiguration of an existing hardstanding area will provide additional parking to the rear of the existing sports hall with a modified access route.

Permission is also sought for the removal of the existing astro-pitch to facilitate the new two storey extension and construction of two multi-use games area with boundary treatment, fencing and lighting.

Supporting documentation lodged with the application by Michael Devine, AL Architects Ltd remarked, “This project is required to meet the needs of the school following a significant increase in enrolment. The proposed facility will provide an environment that aligns with the current standards set by the Department of Education and Youth for the education and care of both mainstream students and students with additional special educational needs. The new building has been a long-term objective of the school, and its delivery will enable us to support, educate, and care for the children in our community.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.