Education Minister Paul Givan gives green light to new build project for Loreto College, Coleraine

The Minister has written to the principal of Loreto College in Coleraine following his decision to lift the pause on a number of schools in the worst condition, announced for capital funding in 2022.

Seven schools in total will now progress in planning: Carrickfergus Academy; Loreto College, Coleraine; Dromore High School; Edmund Rice College, Newtownabbey; Portadown College; Mercy College, Belfast; and Malone Integrated College, Belfast.

Welcoming the announcement during a visit to Dromore High School, the Minister said: “Last week I announced my plans to deliver a modern fit for purpose education system that meets the needs of our society and our pupils in the 21st century.

“There is not a moment to lose. That is why to begin this process, Integrated Consultancy Teams will now be appointed to progress this ambitious programme of new build projects for schools in the worst conditions.”

The Minister continued: “Children across Northern Ireland have the right to be educated in schools which are comfortable and safe, are of good quality and are properly designed and resourced to support their learning.

“We need to transform our school buildings so that they are truly fit for the future and can provide the best possible education experience for our young people.”

In conclusion, the Minister added: “There can be no greater investment in our future than investment in education, therefore I will continue to make the case for significant additional capital funding for our schools’ estate.”

The Principal of Loreto College Coleraine, Stephen Gallagher, welcomed the recent statement from the Education Minister.

Mr Gallagher commented: "This is wonderful news for the students and staff of Loreto College, ushering in an exciting new era in the history of the College. The project could be completed in time for the College’s Centenary celebrations in 2030, and will mean that future generations of Loreto students will continue to avail of a first-class education with state of the art facilities.”

In addition, an Integrated Consultant Team will be appointed, which will undertake the necessary feasibility studies to consider the future needs of the College.