School is to be extended after planning given

Knockminna National School in Ballymote has been granted planning permission for an extension of 104m2.

The development includes the construction of a single- storey classroom with toilets, the formation of a new entrance within an existing window opening, along with additional storage space.

There will also be some alterations to the school’s playground as well as ramped access to the school.

Sligo County Council Director of Services, Ms Dorothy Clarke, decided to grant the application as long as the development abides by a number of conditions.

Ms Clarke requested that the extension’s exterior matches that of the existing school in the interests of visual amenity.

She also asks that proper provision be made to ensure that no surface water flows onto the public road, as well as the disposal of any surface water that flows off the public road and onto the development site.

She states this is in the interests of road safety and to prevent damage to the road.

A number of other conditions were stated in relation to waste management and environmental protection.

The application was submitted to the council by James Drew and Associates on behalf of Fr James McDonagh, Board of Management Chairman on August 31 of this year.

Fr McDonagh had previously written to the council to describe steps the school had undertaken to ease traffic congestion over the last number of years, which included inquiring to buy more land before it was deemed too expensive.

They then attempted to implement a one- way system for dropping off and collecting students.

On granting the application, Ms Clarke said: “Having considered the above applications and any submissions and observations made in writing in relation to the application… having considered the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and having had regard to the provisions of the County Development Plan, I hereby decide to grant permission.”