The GRETB has been given the green light for the demolition of the old Clarin College building in Athenry.
The county council has granted planning permission for the demolition of the two storey school building on the Caheroyn Road.
A planning report submitted with the application states that since the site has been vacated, there have been problems with anti-social behaviour.
“Clarin College has relocated to another site in Athenry – Planning Ref no. 17-1875 – and this site is now vacant.”
“There have been a number of issues with anti-social behaviour on the site as a result, and even in one instance a small fire was lit within the existing building.”
“It is the view of the applicant – Galway Roscommon Education & Training Board (GRETB) – that the buildings are now posing an unnecessary risk and nuisance for the health & safety of its neighbours, and that the buildings require demolition to eliminate that risk.”
A Demolition & Waste Strategy Report was submitted after the council requested further information last November about traffic management, waste clay and rubble, along with noise and vibrations from the demolition works.
The GRETB also submitted a letter stating that they had consulted with all adjoining property owners, who were supportive of the proposed works.
“All residents supported the development and the demolition of the existing structures, and highlighted their concern in relation to the unsociable behaviour currently being experienced in this site.”
Planning permission for the school demolition was granted by the county council with twelve conditions attached.
Clarin College moved to a €20 million new school building in 2020, after construction on the project began two years earlier.
