Wicklow school's new building has no timeline for works
The proposed development at Coláiste Bhríde will see the existing school buildings, temporary classrooms and ball courts demolished and removed.
The existing 1930s school building will be refurbished alongside a new extension for use as a school library.
The new school building will include space for classrooms, a Special Education Needs unit with a secured rooftop play area, a general-purpose hall, a multi-use hall and a range of outdoor play and amenity areas.
The existing vehicular entrance at the northeast of the site off the R725 regional road will be upgraded, with the vehicular entrance at the northwest of the site off the R725 relocated.
A new pedestrian entrance off the R725 is also proposed, as well as a new set-down area adjoining the R725 for cars and school buses, along with 92 car spaces.
Following a question from Wicklow-Wexford TD Malcom Byrne in the Dáil, junior minister at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Healy-Rae said the project is currently in the final stages of stage 2b.
'The architectural process allows for detailed design and planning, obtaining the necessary statutory permissions and the preparation of tender documents.
'When this stage is finalised, the next stage is tendering for a contractor and then onwards to construction in due course.
'While at this early stage it is not possible to provide a timeline for completion of the project, the National Development Finance Agency will continue to engage directly with the school authorities to keep them fully informed of all progress.' he added.
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In response Deputy Byrne said the new school is badly needed to help meet the growing demand for places in the area.
'The neighbouring town of Gorey has three schools, the third of which was sanctioned by the previous Minister, Deputy Foley, will soon reach capacity because the population in north Wexford and south Wicklow is growing incredibly quickly so there will be pressure for additional places in the area. That is why it is critical that Carnew gets a modern school as soon as possible.'
Deputy Byrne said adequate sporting facilities also need to be made available on the site.
'What the school wants to see, which makes economic sense, is that the groundworks are carried out to ensure those sporting facilities can be provided while the school is being built. It is about long-term planning in the area. This must be a priority.' he added.
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