A significant milestone was reached recently after Tánaiste Simon Harris turned the sod on the grounds for the new school extension at Coláiste Chraobh Abhainn in Kilcoole.
The project will involve the design and construction of a new two-storey school extension with a gross internal floor area of approximately 5,779 square metres. The development represents a major investment in the future growth and accessibility for the school.
The new extension will provide modern classrooms alongside dedicated support teaching and technology spaces, offices and meeting rooms, a general-purpose hall and a special needs unit. A range of ancillary facilities will also be incorporated as part of the development. Works to the existing school building will ensure full integration between the two buildings.
The project will also deliver extensive external and recreational facilities, including four hard-surface ball courts, a grass sports pitch, outdoor seating and breakout areas, a sensory garden, a covered technology yard, and a new external storage building with refuse facilities.
Significant site and infrastructure upgrades form part of the development, including new pedestrian access routes, a separate vehicle egress point, revised car pick-up and bus set-down arrangements, and improvements to overall traffic circulation within the campus.
The completed scheme will provide 96 car parking spaces, including five accessible bays, together with 10 electric vehicle charging points and 105 sheltered cycle stands, supporting more sustainable transport options for students, staff, and visitors.
The project also incorporates modern energy infrastructure and sustainability measures, including dedicated LPG and air source heat pump compounds, public lighting, and comprehensive hard and soft landscaping works throughout the site.
Construction has commencedand the completed development is set to provide a modern, future-focused learning environment for generations of students to come.
