Green light for new preschool in Laois village

Plans for a new preschool service for the village of Ballacolla have been given the green light by Laois County Council. 

Aisling Murray applied for planning permission for the new service at the Hawthorn Community Building. She sought permission for the change of use of two meeting rooms, adjoining toilets and entrance hallway to a preschool service (entrance hallway to be shared with community building); new double doors to rear in place of existing window; and change of use of the rear grassed area to an outdoor uncovered grassed area for the preschool, enclosed by a new timber fence and gate.

Letters of support from Naomh Pius X National School and the Trustees of Hawthorn Community Building accompanied the application. 

Principal of Naomh Pius X NS said: "We believe the preschool will be a positive addition to the community and the families in the locality. The Board of Management of Naomh Pius X National School are permitting right of way access to Aisling Murray for her intended preschool. From the school’s  furthermost rear gate to the nearby side gate that enables Aisling access to her 
intended premises."

The chairperson of Hawthorn Community Building and the Trustees of Hawthorn Community Building also gave their permission to the applicant to use a section of the premises to function as a preschool service and offered their support.

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When making the decision to grant permission the Council planner said: "Having regard to its nature, extent and location, the zoning of the site and planning history of adjacent lands, it is considered that the proposed development would be  compliant with the provisions of the Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027 with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area."

Laois County Council granted permission with 11 conditions attached.