Burke issues clarification on LWETB's plans for former bank building on Market Square
The former Bank of Ireland building on Market Square will soon be home to a further education and training centre rather than the new headquarters of Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB) , Minister Peter Burke has said this week.
In a video posted on social media, Minister Burke clarified that an announcement he made earlier this month that the former bank building was going to be the new base for LWETB “is not the case”.
“I just wanted to provide a clarification on that brilliant news that we received last week about the further education and training centre that is now going to occupy the old bank on the Market Square in Mullingar.
“This is a huge government investment and I have worked very closely with Minister Simon Harris on it.
“In my previous post I did reference that it would be a HQ for the ETB, but this is not the case. It will be a further education and training centre and also will fit neatly into the jigsaw that will also assist and underwrite our electric vehicle mobility centre, which is the first big step for Mullingar into tertiary education.
“I will continue to work with Minister Harris and the ETB on this brilliant news, which is a great story for our town.”
LWETB says that the new training centre will “enhance learning opportunities in the heart of Mullingar” and “breathe new life into this iconic town centre location”.
In a statement sent to the Westmeath Examiner, LWETB said that “the decision to repurpose the Bank of Ireland building represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance education and training opportunities within the region. LWETB aims to create a dynamic environment where individuals can develop essential skills for the future”.
Chief executive, Liz Lavery, said “We are thrilled about this exciting development for LWETB. Moving into the former Bank of Ireland Building not only revitalises a prominent landmark in Mullingar but also expands our ability to service our community more effectively.
"With this strategic relocation we are not only enhancing our current services but also paving the way for future initiatives, such as the recently announced [EV] National Mobility and Capability Centre also to be based in the Mullingar area.
"I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone involved in this project and express my enthusiasm about the positive impact this will have for the people of Mullingar and beyond. I look forward to the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.
“With its rich history and newfound purpose, the Bank of Ireland Building is poised to become a cornerstone of education in Mullingar. LWETB looks forward to welcoming learners through its doors in the near future.”