Progress on a permanent school building project for Rush National School, Rush

QUESTION

To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding progress on a permanent school building project for Rush National School, Rush; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of Architectural Planning, Stage 2b - Detailed Design, which includes the application for statutory approval and the preparation of tender documents.  Statutory approvals in relation to the permanent new school build have been secured.
Following the appointment of a replacement consultant architect, the Design Team has reviewed the previous Stage 2(b) documentation and is currently upgrading the design to ensure that the new school building is a Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) in compliance with the 2017 amendment to Part L of the Building Regulations.
The Design Team is also finalising the detail in relation to the provision of temporary accommodation and playground facilities during the construction of the new school building. My Department is currently reviewing a report in relation to costs for the temporary accommodation and playground. Upon review and approval of costs, the Design Team will then submit an application for Planning Permission for the temporary accommodation and playground to the Local Authority.
The Design Team will then complete the tender documents and submit the Stage 2b report to my Department.  Upon receipt and review of the Stage 2(b) submission, my Department will revert to the Board of Management regarding the further progression of the project at that time