Laois school lodges plans for extension for new ASD unit

Plans for an extension to accommodate a new Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) unit have been lodged by The Heath National School's Board of Management. 

Scoil an Fhraoich Mhóir National School is seeking permission to construct a  single storey extension to the side and front of the existing school to provide for two special educational needs classrooms, one mainstream classroom and all related ancillary accommodation.

The application, which has been submitted to Laois County Council, also proposed new external play areas; proposed new vehicular entrance from adjoining the public road (L3810) to access a proposed new parking area; along with all relevant site development works.

The population of Laois has grown exponentially in recent years, and the demand for places in special schools and ASD units within mainstream schools has never been higher. Approval has come from government to set up more ASD units across the county to meet demand but schools have struggled to find accommodation to open the new classrooms. 

READ NEXT:  Businessman Peter Casey writes to Laois Councillors seeking support for Aras bid