Aghagallon: New-build plans for primary school include additional parking spaces and play areas
St. Mary’s Primary School, Derrymore Road, Craigavon, is currently in consultation mode as part of plans to demolish the existing school building and adjacent mobile classroom units, to be replaced by a new building, subject to planning approval.
The plans also include the provision of a cycle shelter, bin store and heat pump store, hardstanding area for additional car parking spaces, service yard area, hard and soft play areas.
The Aghagallon-based school outlined their plans as follows on their website: “The current school accommodation no longer meets the identified educational requirements or the accommodation standards expected of a modern primary school.
“As a result, a programme of investment is being progressed to provide a new purpose-built school that better supports the needs of pupils, staff and the wider school community.
“Following consideration of the available development options, proposals have been developed for a replacement school on the existing site.
“The new building has been designed to bring together mainstream teaching accommodation, specialist educational provision and shared facilities within a coordinated school environment.
“The proposed development seeks to address the limitations of the existing school accommodation and provide modern, accessible and flexible facilities that support current and future educational needs.
“The replacement school will provide improved classroom accommodation, dedicated specialist teaching and support spaces, enhanced facilities for pupils with additional educational needs, and a new multi-purpose hall.
“The proposals will also improve the school’s external environment through the provision of dedicated play areas, landscaped spaces and improved arrangements for vehicle access, parking and pupil drop-off.
“Overall, the development aims to create a safe, inclusive and welcoming educational environment that supports teaching, learning, recreation and pupil wellbeing.
“The proposals comprise the redevelopment of the existing school site to provide a new purpose-built primary school, incorporating mainstream teaching accommodation, specialist educational facilities and associated external works.
“The new school will be predominantly single-storey, with a two-storey section accommodating additional teaching and resource facilities.
“The development will also include new outdoor play areas, landscaping, car parking, improved access and drop-off facilities, providing a modern and welcoming learning environment for pupils, staff and visitors.
“Our pre-application community consultation runs for a three-month period, and we invite you to attend a public consultation event at the school on Tuesday, December 1, between 4.30pm and 8pm.”
François Vincent, Local Democracy Reporter