Planning permission granted for extension at Clare school

PLANS for an extension at a primary school in Ennis are set to proceed after An Bord Pleanála granted permission for the works.

The board of management at Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg had received planning permission from Clare County Council but this decision was appealed by a local resident.

The proposed development will see the construction of a two-storey extension to the existing school building to include six classrooms, two SEN classrooms, a GP hall, two ball courts and additional staff parking.

The proposed extension will be positioned to the front of the existing school and the temporary classrooms located around the site will be removed.

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In her report, which was considered by the Board, planning inspector Breda Gannon said the main issues raised in the appeal were the potential impact on residential amenities and traffic.

The specific grounds of appeal included:

• Overlooking and loss of light.
• Noise from school and outdoor play area.
• Parking provision in Glenina pitch is contrary to the provisions of the
development plan.
• Absence of traffic management plan.
• Antisocial behaviour.
• Lack of public engagement with local residents.

The planned extended school, if given the go-ahead by the board, will not create any additional students or trips with no planned increase in students or staff. The school has around 470 students and 30 staff.

“The purpose of the new classroom and associated facilities is to improve the facilities available to the present school’s teachers and students. Presently there are some sub-standard sized rooms within the existing school facility, some of which are not fit for purpose,” stated a mobility and management report submitted in support of the planning application.

In her recommendation to the board to grant permission, Ms Gannon stated: "Having regard to the established use on the site, the location, size and scale of the proposed extension, I consider the proposed development will not impact on the residential or visual amenities of the area and is acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience and would, therefore, be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area."

After considering the inspector's report, the board formally approved the plans, subject to compliance with 10 conditions.