EXCITING developments are on the horizon for Enniskillen Royal Grammar School as plans for the redevelopment of the old Portora school site have been officially passed.
The new site proposes an extension, along with improved access and parking facilities, while also keeping listed buildings, including Portora House and Steele Hall.
Since the merger of Portora Royal and the Enniskillen Collegiate in 2016 to form Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, both students and staff have been working across two separate campuses.
Over the years, behind-the-scenes efforts have been underway to plan and design the transformation of the former Portora site into a single, central campus for the school.
The site will not be prominent from the main Shore Road, given its private setting. The layout is designed to ensure there is no harm to the amenity, of nearby residents, with no overlooking or overshadowing.
A 23-page planning report stressed the plans were sensitive to the historic and protected nature of the building, which was built in 1777 and expanded over the centuries.
Noting the then Minister of Education had approved the development back in 2014, the report also points out the need for the development following the merger of the former boys and girls schools almost 10 years ago.
“The current split-campus arrangement and outdate infrastructure create operational challenges and inadequate facilities, including undersized classrooms, poor accessibility, insufficient recreational space, and limited parking,” it states.
“The development includes enhanced educational facilities for 900 pupils, incorporating classrooms, dining areas, and improved access and parking infrastructure,” the report continued.
“This development will resolve these issues by consolidating accommodation onto one site with modern, compliant facilities that meet the Department of Education’s requirements.”
To read more on this story see this week’s Fermanagh Herald. Can’t get to the shop to collect your copy? No problem! You can download a copy straight to your device by following this link… Subscribe to current edition
To read more.. Subscribe to current edition
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere