Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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780. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills for an update on the new build for (details supplied); the timeline for the completion of a detailed design and for the submission of planning permission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39321/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The project to which the Deputy refers has been devolved to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) for delivery as part of a programme of school building projects. This school is in the bundle referred to as ‘Project Boyne’

The project, which is to be built on the site adjacent to the school, is currently at Stage 2b (planning) of the architectural process. A planning application was lodged with Wicklow County Council and planning permission was granted in Quarter 4 2022. Further surveys aimed at informing the works requirements for this project were carried out in Q1 2023 and reports are currently being finalised.

When Stage 2b has been approved, the next stage is tendering for a contractor and then onwards to construction. It is not possible to provide a date for the practical completion of the project in advance of the outcome of the required procurement process. The NDFA will be engaging directly with the school authority to keep it informed of progress.

Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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781. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills for an update on the development of an educational master plan at Fassaroe, Bray; the number of schools that will be located at this site; the timeline for delivery of those schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39322/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, a suitable site has been identified and the Department has reached an agreement in principle, subject to contract, for the acquisition of a site at Fassaroe, Bray, Co. Wicklow. It is planned that this site will provide a permanent location for North Wicklow Educate Together Bray.

Taking into account the underlying demographic trends and the level of potential increase in school place requirements arising from the projected increased population for the Bray area as identified in the Wicklow County development Plan 2022-2028, the Department anticipates a future requirement for at least one new primary school.

The Fassaroe site will be master planned to make allowance for this future educational requirement in the area. This site is subject to an SHD application, which is currently with An Bord Pleanála for decision. Once this process has concluded a master plan will be carried out as part of the design process for North Wicklow Educate Together.