Planning permission is being sought for significant works at a Longford school. The Board of Management of St. Mel's College is seeking the green light from Longford County Council. St. Mel's College dates back to 1865 and is a protected structure, alongside the College Chapel and the detached Study Hall. The school's board of management is seeking permission to demolish a single-storey, 2-storey and 4-storey rear extension of the school building. The application is proposing alterations to the 1865 building including construction of steps and ramps to provide universal access at the front and side entrances. This will include the replacement of aluminium windows with timber sash windows to historic configurations, removal of sand and cement pebbledash, with the replacement of lime render.
The project also comprises of internal alterations to the school building, including reconfiguration of classrooms and installation of a passenger lift. Additional sanitary facilities and measures to improve fire safety will also be provided. A draught lobby and fitting of two internal fire doors is included in proposed works as well as the retention of an external ramp and steps at the main entrance to the Study Hall building. Longford county planners have received the application and are due to make a decision by the 27th of November.
