A temporary solution to gain access to Clarin College’s new facility from Athenry is expected to be in place by September of this year.
Construction work on the €20 million building is expected to conclude in March, however, there are fears the opening of the college could be delayed as the footbridge which was included in approved planning permission in March 2018, was omitted from the tendering contract process.
In response to a question posed by Athenry councillor Shelly Herterich Quinn on the footbridge, chief executive of the Galway County Council Kevin Kelly told the chamber on Monday that the local authority had met with two landowners to find a temporary solution to the footbridge.
Mr Kelly; “There have been meetings in relation to the particular issue [of access to the school]. We will be advancing the process for the bridge and discussion with two landowners for a temporary solution. We have reached a verbal agreement with one and there is progress being made with [the other landowner].
“We are hoping for a temporary solution to be in place by September.”
The two storey school building in the townland of Newford will include a two classroom special needs unit, sports hall, classroom, general purpose hall, and student and teacher facilities.
Outside the building there will be 92 car parking spaces, ballcourts, and a new pedestrian/cycle path along the R348.
