Local school 'couldn't be more delighted' after expansion plans given the green light

St Joseph's Secondary School in Rochfortbridge says that it "couldn't be more delighted" that its plans for a major redevelopment and expansion of its campus have been given the green light.

In a post on social media, the school says that it is " absolutely thrilled" that its planning application was successful.

"This is a huge decision for our school community and for the future generations of students here at St Joseph's," the school posted on Facebook.

"These ambitious plans will see the demolition of the school’s existing two-storey school building and its extensions in order to facilitate a new 9000 square metre multi million three-storey school building.

"The new three storey building, when built, will incorporate 33 new classrooms, 20 specialist teaching rooms, four special education needs (SEN) class base units, a general purpose hall, and student social spaces.

"The proposal will provide upgraded facilities, a more efficient site layout and improved amenity spaces, access and parking arrangements.

In order to facilitate the increased pupil numbers at the school, a car park capable of hosting 90 vehicles is also included alongside 100 sheltered bicycle spaces.

"...We couldn't be more delighted and we would like to thank our board of management, our hard working teaching staff, our parent and student communities, Westmeath County Council, our local TDs and councillors and all of those who have supported this project and who have had a hand in making these plans become a reality."