Go-ahead for €25m school expansion in Limerick city

PLANNERS have given permission for a multi-million euro redevelopment of one of Limerick's oldest schools.

Coláiste Mhichíl CBS, which is almost 200 years old, is set for a €25m upgrade which will see its student numbers increase from 330 to 550.

The landmark 19th century building at Sexton Street is to remain untouched, but its interior will be completely upgraded.

An extension is to be built to the rear of the school with a building constructed in the 1980s demolished.

This will pave the way for state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs and practical rooms.

Notably, there will be a new gym - as opposed to the refurbishment of the existing one - and an autism learning unit.

School principal Denis O'Connor said: “We have to recognise the Department of Education have been positive in all this and are backing it. It's good to see. There has been a lot of investment in other educational sectors in Limerick, so it's great to see the department backing the voluntary school sector.”

He also paid tribute to the school's board of management, which is leading the project.

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Deputy principal Rob Williams added it's “massive” for Coláiste Mhichíl.

“For a school like ours with almost 200 years of history, it's great to see we can still service the local area. We have a massive community. Forty-two different nationalities here and it's great to get what the kids deserve and what the teachers deserve.

They have been fabulous. So the least they deserve now is a building they are proud of.”

The board of management at the school will now tender for a builder to carry out the construction work, which is estimated to last from between two and two-and-a-half years.

There will be a jobs dividend too, Mr O'Connor added, saying that hundreds of construction workers will be employed.

And, since the school is increasing its student numbers by 30%, new teacher roles will also be created. It's hoped builders will move on site before the end of this year.

Founded in 1829, famous alumni of the school include JP McManus.