Plans to convert old Mayo convent school into community hub

PLANS to convert the old convent school in Ballyhaunis into a community hub have gone on public display.

It is proposed to redevelop the former school on Abbey Street for use as a workspace hub and to support local enterprise.

The design brief also includes a new public plaza adjoining the building and a new pedestrian bridge connecting the plaza to the public swimming pool.

The outdoor recreational facilities will include play areas and an open-air amphitheatre.

The building will have a community learning space, craft workshop, canteen, artist studio and community activity space.

Details of what is proposed have been published by Mayo County Council, who will be seeking planning permission from An Bord Pleanála, and members of the public are invited to make submissions.

The former St. Joseph’s School is a three-storey imposing structure which forms part of a cluster of former institutional buildings in the centre of the town.

The buildings have been vacant since 2012 and have become derelict.

Full details are available here: https://consult.mayo.ie/en/consultation/part-8-ballyhaunis-community-hub