The Military Barracks in Castlebar is being put forward as ‘the preferred site’ for a major third-level education institute, The Connaught Telegraph has learned.
Talks are ongoing with the Department of Higher Education in regard to constructing the proposed Mayo College of Further Education stand-alone facility at the prime town centre location.
A formal application is being finalised ahead of a January 12 deadline, after which it will be assessed by Solas, the State agency which oversees the building of a world class further education and training sector in Ireland.
Local TD Alan Dillon said the project would be a catalyst for the transformation and revitalisation of the elevated town centre site, adjacent to which a multi-million-euro development including a 98-bedroom nursing home, 49 sheltered apartments and a mix of retail and office units are planned.
“It is now the preferred site for the new Mayo College of Further Education and I am optimistic of it proceeding there,” he added.
Minister Simon Harris announced in November 2022 a sum of €29.9 million for the state-of-the-art campus, which will incorporate the head offices of the Mayo Sligo Leitrim Education and Training Board.
Castlebar was one of 10 locations selected by the Department of Higher Education for further education colleges offering a wide range of courses, including apprenticeships.
The facility was widely expected to be constructed on the site of the Castlebar College of Further Education at Newtown, but the situation has now changed.
When contacted, Councillor Blackie Gavin said it would be a wonderful development for the town if it can be brought to fruition.
“The money is in place and the proposal is definitely gathering momentum. It would be great to see new life being injected into the Military Barracks site at long last,” he added.
