New £7.7million purpose-built school in Coalisland 'will bring lasting benefits for generations to come'
A sod-cutting ceremony was held on Wednesday (September 23) to mark the start of work on a £7.7 million primary school in Coalisland.
The new-build project will deliver a seven classroom school with a single unit nursery at Gaelscoil Uí Néill on the Gortgonis Road.
Principal Conor McPhillips said: “Today’s sod cutting ceremony marks an exciting milestone for the pupils and staff at Gaelscoil Uí Néill.
“It is the beginning of our journey towards a modern, purpose-built school that will provide an inspiring environment, where young minds can thrive, grow and achieve their full potential.
"I would like to pay tribute to everyone involved in the hard work and planning of our new school. This will undoubtedly bring lasting benefits to the entire school community for generations to come.”
Attending the ceremony, Education Minister Paul Givan said: “I am pleased to be here to celebrate the start of an exciting new phase in Gaelscoil Uí Néill’s development, with work beginning on a new seven-classroom primary school and nursery unit.
"This significant project represents an investment of more than £7million, which will provide long-term benefits for pupils, staff and the wider school community through improved facilities and enhanced opportunities for teaching and learning.”
Gaelscoil Uí Néill was announced as a major capital project on 22 January 2013 with work expected to complete Spring 2028.
The minister continued: "This new development will help ensure that Gaelscoil Uí Néill continues to provide an excellent educational experience for many years to come.”
KnoxClayton is the appointed integrated consultant team and following construction procurement, Connolly & Fee was appointed as the integrated supply team in March 2022.