BJD school gets green-light for extension project

St Clare's National School in Ballyjamesduff has received planning permission for a new two storey-extension to northwest of the existing school building on the Virginia Road.

The plan is to add two new mainstream classrooms, including two en-suites per classroom (160sqm), one Special Education and Teaching room (15.65sqm), an office (10.70sqm), and storage space (7.66sqm).

A wheelchair accessible bathroom (6.44 sqm) is also incorporated in the approved design, along with all ancillary services.

The application was submitted to the council's planning section in the name of Fr Kevin Donohoe, chairman of the local school's Board of Management.

A new secondary entrance to the north-facing rear area of site, as well as landscaping, drainage and all ancillary works are also planned. Further information on the proposed development was sought and submitted to the council in early February before a decision was made.

In 2022, the Department of Education approved new accommodation at St Clare's National School, to include a Home School Liaison/Parents’ Room and a Special Education Teaching Room at the busy school.

St Clare's was among seven Cavan primary schools approved for DEIS status that same year.