Phase One Planning Application lodged for NUI Maynooth Library Extension,  

100 construction jobs to be created in first phase

NUI Maynooth has lodged a planning application for the enabling works for the new library extension to be constructed on the University’s south campus. This first phase of construction, the enabling and infrastructure works, is due to commence May in 2010 and will create around 100 construction jobs. The planning permission for the library building will be lodged later in November.

Frank Fitzmaurice, Director of Corporate Services at NUI Maynooth commented “this is a very exciting time for the University - we have experienced strong growth over the last number of years and the new library reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to providing students with best quality facilities for research, learning and teaching”.

The key elements of the enabling works are

• Construction of a new roundabout on the Kilcock Road, at the entrance to the North Campus, with a new entrance to the library on the south campus
• Traffic calming works commencing at the new roundabout, consisting of road narrowing through the provision of footpaths, grass verges, street lighting and cycle lanes
• The removal of the footbridge which spans the Kilcock Road and connects the North and South campus and the installation of a toucan crossing  approx 140m east of the new roundabout

Commenting on the construction project Frank Fitzmaurice added that “the proposed design for the library and the new entrance to the north and south campus will help to make the University more visible and open to the general public and will further denote that Maynooth is a university town. This library will also play a key role in enhancing the cultural and intellectual integration between the town and the University.”

The new library, due to complete in early 2011, is part of the University’s ambitious campus development plan which includes a new Humanities and Social Sciences Building and additional on campus accommodation. Funding for €20m for the library project was announced by Minister Batt O'Keefe TD at the end of last year. 

Ends

 

Artist impression of the new library

Note to Editor

The planning permission for the library building itself will be lodged at the end of November. It was necessary to lodge the enabling works application in advance of the main development as there is a time restriction of May to September for work to be carried out adjacent to the river Rye.