LATEST: Green light for local special school upgrade

Planning permission has been granted for a major expansion of a special needs school in Roscrea.

St. Anne’s Special School in Roscrea provides a service to children with a moderate, severe or profound general learning disability, or with autism and a moderate general learning disability.

St. Anne’s School provides quality Individual Education Plans relevant to the needs and abilities of each unique pupil and provides quality transition programmes into Adult Services and is registered to offer programmes leading to F.E.T.A.C. Level 3 Awards.

Tipperary County Council has now approved a significant upgrade project for the school, clearing the way for the construction of a large single-storey extension designed to enhance the school’s capacity and specialist supports.

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The approved development will see the addition of a 1,362 square metre extension to the north side of the existing school building.

It will include six new classrooms, along with a library, dedicated clinical and sensory rooms, and a range of ancillary support spaces tailored to students with additional needs.

A secure internal courtyard play area will also form part of the project, providing a safe and accessible outdoor space integrated into the new building.

The development will take place within the grounds of Sean Ross Abbey, a protected structure.

However, planning documents state that the new extension will be located approximately 190 metres north of the Abbey and will not impact on its setting or appearance.

The school currently serves 49 pupils with 38 staff, and the expansion is expected to significantly improve facilities for children with special educational needs in the Roscrea and surrounding areas.