‘Super project’ to redevelop old convent in Offaly ‘could do with getting started’

A “super project” to redevelop an old convent in County Offaly “could do with getting started”, a council meeting has heard.

Plans to convert the Presentation Convent on Patrick Street in Portarlington into social housing were first announced in 2021.

Planning permission for the development of 37 units was granted in 2023, but construction is yet to begin on the project.

Independent councillor Eddie Fitzpatrick spoke on the subject at the March meeting of the Edenderry Municipal District.

Cllr Fitzpatrick said: “Just in relation to the convent in Portarlington, I know that Sophia Housing have purchased that.

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“Planning was granted [...] but to date, no work has started on site. I’m just wondering have you been in contact with them or is there any update on what they are proposing to do with the building.

“It’s a fine building and there is a good development plan there for the area, so it would be great to see that progressing as soon as possible.”

In response, John Mitchell, Senior Executive Engineer at Offaly County Council, highlighted the potential of the project.

Mr Mitchell said: “On the convent in Portarlington, I suppose that’s a super project, it really is.

“The Department [of Housing] has shown its commitment to it by allocating over €14 million of a budget for it.

“It has got planning [permission] so there’s lots of projects there, lots of ingredients there to bring about a super project.

“If it’s combined with other funding sources, I think that whole area could be amazing.”

He went on to outline the issues facing the Sophia Housing Association and the reasons why the redevelopment hasn’t started yet.

“That same AHB [Approved Housing Body) has been involved in a very similar project in Portlaoise and as I understand, it’s supposed to be a very good outcome.

“I suppose from their point of view, maybe they’ve overstretched themselves a little bit in relation to how much they can take on.

“They haven’t let that one go and from my point of view, I’ll be pushing very hard to get that through.”

Mr Mitchell continued by saying that whilst the original plan was for 37 housing units, there are now plans for a total of 45 units.

In most cases, such a change would require another planning application to be submitted. However, no such application has been lodged.

“The project on paper is getting better but as you say, it could do with getting started there,” Mr Mitchell added.

He concluded by reassuring the elected members that Offaly County Council remains focused on ensuring the project comes to fruition.