Three Ballymahon schools poised for €15m plus expansion

Three major announcements over the past 13 months have set Ballymahon up for an unprecedented €15m plus capital investment in the local schools’ infrastructure.

Confirmation from Deputy Joe Flaherty of a major extension for St Matthew’s NS, now means that the  South Longford town’s three schools are all set for major expansions and investment.

The Longford TD paid tribute to Minister for Education Norma, Foley, whom he said, has worked closely with him to advance the three projects.

He said: “St Matthew’s NS have been approved for a 12 classroom extension and there is also provision for five new ‘special education teacher rooms’ as well as new staff room, general-purpose room and the  reconfiguration of existing school.”

He also paid tribute to the board of management at St Matthew's as well as principal and deputy principal, Herbert Farrell and Bryan Kennedy,  who have passionately promoted the project.  

The latest announcement for Ballymahon comes on the back of major expansion plans announced for both the Mercy Secondary and Vocational School in the past 13 months. Deputy Flaherty explained that both of these projects are now progressing through design stage in anticipation of formal planning applications.

The Longford TD added:  “I am especially pleased that all three extensions will place an unprecedented emphasis on the provision of special education. All three projects combined will ensure that Ballymahon will be one of the most inclusive and best-equipped towns in the country, when it comes to special education.”

Last November approval was announced for 16 new classrooms at Mercy Secondary School. This will include two general classrooms;  two Special Education Needs classrooms; two Special Education Teacher rooms;  one construction room; one tech room (with prep area); two tech projects stores; two science labs with prep area; one graphics room; one multimedia room; one music room and one textiles room.

Last February Deputy Flaherty confirmed details of a major announcement for Ballymahon Vocational School. Work is ongoing on the design for an extension that will include four general classrooms; four special education classrooms; two science labs &  science preparations rooms; one art room; one art storage room and ancillary storage rooms.