The community of Edenderry is celebrating as planning permission has officially been granted for the development of a new state-of-the-art school building. This long-awaited decision marks a significant milestone for Oaklands Community College which has been serving the educational needs of the area for decades.
The new facility will replace the existing building, which currently accommodates the school’s growing student population in recent years. The proposed development will include modern classrooms, a fully equipped gymnasium, science laboratories, and outdoor recreational areas, ensuring that students have access to the best possible learning environment.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Principal Mr. Brian Kehoe expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “This is a momentous day for Oaklands Community College and indeed the entire community of Edenderry and the surrounding areas. The approval of planning permission is the green light we have been hoping for, and it means that we can move forward with creating a facility that will match the calibre of the outstanding students and staff in the school. It has been a wonderful few days for our school, our planning approval coming at the same time as the outstanding Leaving Certificate results this year”
He added, “The new school building will provide a safe, modern, and inspiring space where our students will continue to thrive academically and socially. We believe that this development will not only benefit our current students but will also attract new families to the area, contributing to the overall growth and vibrancy of Edenderry.”
The school has worked closely with LOETB, the local council, architects, and the community to ensure that the new development aligns with the needs and expectations of all stakeholders. The design has been carefully considered to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment while providing the necessary facilities to support a comprehensive education.
“The collaboration between the school, local authorities, and the wider community has been invaluable in bringing this project to fruition,” Principal Mr. Brian Kehoe continued. “We are grateful to the local council authorities, our design team and Laois and Offlay Education and Training Board (LOETB) for the support and input we’ve received throughout the planning process, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this new school will have on future generations.”
Ms. Linda Tynan, LOETB’s Director of Schools, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the dedication and hard work of the school management and staff. “The state-of-the-art facilities in the new building are a reflection of the high standards of teaching and learning that are consistently delivered by the senior leadership team and staff at Oaklands Community College,” said Ms. Tynan. “I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate Mr. Liam Quinn on his recent appointment as Deputy Principal. His extensive experience working alongside the current Principal, Mr. Brian Kehoe, and Deputy Principal, Ms. Mairead O’Shea, is invaluable. This leadership team, under Mr. Kehoe’s guidance, has been exemplary in prioritising the educational needs of all students. Reaching this stage in the development of the new school is a momentous achievement, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the school community.”
Mr. Joe Cunningham, Chief Executive of LOETB, also welcomed the news, stating, “The approval of planning permission for the new Oaklands Community College is a pivotal moment in the school’s history. This project not only represents a significant investment in the future of education at Oaklands but also reaffirms our commitment to continuously providing outstanding learning opportunities for our students. The students are at the heart of everything at Oaklands, and this new chapter will empower our dedicated staff to continue delivering the excellent standards of education and care for which Oaklands is already renowned. We are excited to see this vision come to life and to continue supporting the exceptional work being done at Oaklands Community College. I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the tireless efforts of all colleagues and stakeholders who have contributed to this project so far. Their commitment ensures that this new facility will further enhance the learning environment for future generations.”
The project will now go out to tender with construction expected to begin in the middle of next year. The announcement has been met with widespread approval from parents, local residents, and community leaders, who have long advocated for improvements to the school’s facilities. The new building is seen as a vital investment in the future of Edenderry and its young people.
As the community looks forward to this exciting new chapter, there is a shared sense of optimism that Oaklands Community College will continue to be a cornerstone of education and a source of pride for Edenderry for many years to come.
