Gort National School – Sod Turning

OCC Construction is pleased to mark the official sod turning at Gort National School, signalling the commencement of a significant phased redevelopment project in County Galway.

The project comprises the phased demolition of the existing school building, along with all associated outbuildings, structures and play shelters, in addition to alterations to existing boundaries. This will be followed by the construction of a new two-storey primary school extending to approximately 2,537m². The new facility will provide 12 general classrooms, 2 Special Educational Needs (SEN) classrooms, a GP Hall and modern ancillary accommodation, delivering a high-quality and future-focused learning environment for students and staff.

The works have been carefully planned to ensure the school remains fully operational throughout the construction period. This includes the safe and controlled removal of asbestos-containing materials, carried out in strict compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and best practice standards.

In parallel with the main building works, the project includes significant site and infrastructure upgrades. These works involve modifications to the main entrance off Tubber Road and improvements to the St. Colman’s Park entrance, alongside localised road realignment and the provision of new footpaths, including a controlled zebra crossing to enhance pedestrian safety. The development also incorporates new totem signage associated with St. Colman’s Park, as well as the provision of an external store, vehicular drop-off and set-down areas, on-site parking, and a range of hard and soft play surfaces, including a dedicated sensory garden.

Further elements of the project include new boundary treatments, heat pump and bin enclosures, comprehensive site development works, surface water attenuation measures, and the installation of foul and surface water drainage connections, together with all associated ancillary services required to support the new facility.

OCC Construction will deliver the project through a structured and safety-led approach, integrating Lean Construction principles, Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and BIM-led coordination to ensure efficient delivery, high quality outcomes and programme certainty. A strong emphasis will be placed on stakeholder coordination and maintaining a safe environment for students, staff and the wider school community throughout all phases of the works.

This project reflects OCC Construction’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable educational infrastructure that supports growing communities across Ireland