Planning application received: change of Use from existing 1439sqm secondary school facility to commercial offices and a childcare

MSR Childcare Services has lodged a planning application with Westmeath County Council to change the use of the former Mercy Secondary School on Dublin Road in Killbeggan from a 1,439‑square‑metre secondary school facility to commercial offices and a childcare centre. The application was received on 2 June 2026 and is currently in pre‑validation; council decision is due by 27 July 2026.

The proposal would see the existing building repurposed for office space while a portion of the site would be converted into a childcare facility, according to the planning submission. The applicant has not yet provided detailed plans or cost estimates, and the council will consider the application against relevant planning policies before making a decision.

Other recent decisions in Co Westmeath illustrate the council’s willingness to approve changes of use for existing buildings. A change of use was granted for part of an existing stables building at Creaghduff, allowing it to be used as a feed store and stables. In The Derries, a proposal to retain covered area to the east side of an indoor equestrian arena and gravelled area to the south was approved. Additionally, a redevelopment plan involving demolition of two single‑storey extensions and construction of a replacement single‑storey building at Killbeggan has been received.

The council’s planning portal lists the application under reference 2660291. For full details, see Westmeath County Council’s planning website.

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