Plans lodged for new 800-student secondary school campus in Tipperary

A decision is due early next year on a planning application that could significantly expand post-primary education facilities in Roscrea. Tipperary County Council is expected to rule by February 20, 2026, on proposals submitted by Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) for a new school building at Coláiste Phobal.

The co-educational school, which was established in 1999 following the merger of Sacred Heart Convent, Roscrea Vocational School and the Christian Brothers School, currently has 595 students enrolled — 291 boys and 304 girls. Under the proposed development, the campus would be redesigned to accommodate up to 800 students, allowing for future growth.

Planning documents outline the demolition of nearly all existing structures on the site, with the exception of the original school building dating from the 1940s. All prefabricated units would also be removed. Construction would be carried out while the school remains operational.

The new facilities would include a combination of general and specialist classrooms, a physical education hall, a multi-purpose hall, a library, administrative offices, staff facilities and modern sanitary amenities.

Access to the school would be upgraded through the creation of a larger entrance from Corville Road. The plans also provide for improved transport and safety measures, including set-down and pick-up zones, new footpaths and cycleways, bicycle parking, and 80 on-site car parking spaces.

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Outdoor development forms another key element of the proposal, with five ball courts, landscaped garden areas and designated outdoor social spaces planned.

Coláiste Phobal operates under the patronage of Tipperary ETB and is led by principal Jack Flynn.