Appeal lodged against Breifne College expansion plan

The development initially drew just one formal objection. Now the issue has escalated to An Coimisiún Pleanála

An formal appeal has been lodged against a sweeping expansion plan of school facilities at Cavan Town's Breifne College.

What was set to become the most significant redevelopment of the Cootehill Road school since its original construction in 1974 has now been thrust into uncertainty.

The proposal had initially been green-lighted by planners at Cavan County Council- despite local concerns over the size of development, traffic management, and potential impact on neighbouring properties.

Backed by the Cavan & Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), the ambitious proposal would see part of the original single-storey school demolished to make way for a striking new mix of two- and three-storey extensions.

The plan also includes modern sustainability measures, with PV solar panels proposed for the roof of the two-storey section, alongside internal refurbishments. Site improvements will expand access and amenities, including “a new ramp and steps to the proposed entrance, 38 car parking spaces, 30 bicycle parking spaces, [and] a new paved courtyard social space,” complemented by extensive landscaping.

The development initially drew just one formal objection. Now the issue has escalated to An Coimisiún Pleanála, with an appeal lodged late last month, March 26

Breifne College has steadily grown through decades of extensions- from additional classrooms in the 1970s to major upgrades in recent years. With student numbers currently around 850, the expansion would allow enrolment to surpass 1,000.