Hedgestown National School Capital Project

QUESTION

To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the appointment of an architect to a school project (details supplied) will be prioritised in order that the school can proceed to planning without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. (Details Supplied) Hedgestown National School Capital Project

REPLY

The major building project referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning, Stage 2 (b) - Detailed Design. The tender process to appoint a replacement architect for this project was completed on 26th July 2018.
The replacement architect is currently reviewing the Stage 2(b) tender documentation.  The Design Team is also working on the completion of a submission to the Department outlining the steps required to ensure the new school building will be a Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) in compliance with Part L of the current Building Regulations.
The Department understands from the consultant architect that a planning application for photovoltaic (PV) cells will be needed to meet NZEB requirements and work on this is currently being progressed by the Design Team.
Upon receipt and review of the revised Stage 2(b) submission, which will include the Design Team's NZEB proposal, the Department will revert to the school regarding the further progression of the project.