Monaghan Social Housing Wins Planning Permission at Former School Site
Monaghan’s former school site is set for transformation into a multi-million euro social housing development following a key planning permission decision.
The proposed project will deliver a mix of modern apartments and family homes, directly addressing urgent local demand for affordable accommodation in Monaghan town. This housing scheme approval comes as Monaghan County Council responds to residential pressures amplified by population growth and a limited supply of social dwellings. Redeveloping the disused school site—considered a strategically located brownfield asset—maximises urban land use while supporting community needs.
Planning permission documents highlight careful consideration of the site’s environmental impact, including assessments on drainage, open space, and access for emergency services. The development is not classified as a flood-risk development, with technical reports submitted to the council confirming appropriate mitigation measures. Traffic management plans and sustainable transport links, such as enhanced pedestrian and cycling routes, are also integral to the proposal, reflecting current best practice in urban design.
The application process involved detailed pre-consultation with local residents and stakeholders, addressing concerns over density, parking, and the preservation of nearby green areas. While some submissions raised issues about increased neighbourhood activity, the council determined that the social benefits and compliance with the County Development Plan outweighed these objections. The decision also referenced the absence of any material contravention of local zoning objectives, reinforcing the project’s alignment with Monaghan’s long-term planning strategy.
With the green light from planners, construction is expected to commence within the next 12 months, subject to final contractual agreements and the resolution of any appeals. The project will be delivered in phases, prioritising rapid occupancy for those on the council’s housing list. Officials anticipate that the development will not only ease accommodation shortages but also stimulate local employment and economic activity during the build phase.
- Multi-million euro investment in Monaghan social housing
- Former school site repurposed for residential use
- Planning permission secured after thorough environmental and community review
- No material contravention of zoning; flood-risk development ruled out
- Project aligns with County Development Plan and addresses local needs
This initiative sets a benchmark for how vacant public assets can be reactivated to deliver housing scheme approvals that meet both demographic and sustainability goals. While the final An Bord Pleanála decision is not required for this case, the council’s approval marks a significant step in Monaghan’s efforts to tackle its housing crisis through innovative, plan-led development.
Originally reported in The Irish Independent on Sun, 12 Oct 2025 17:07:13 +0000. [Full story]
