New lease of life for St Mary’s

ONE of Youghal’s most historic landmarks, the 19th century St Mary’s College in Emmett Place, is to be transformed into an ultra-modern enterprise centre.

A planning application has been lodged by Youghal Town Council, owners of the college, and given that the council will be adjudicating on its own application, no problems are envisaged.

However, town clerk Liam Ryan said the application will be treated and dealt with in the same way as all others are, with members of the general public, groups and organisations all entitled to make submissions and objections should they see fit to do so.

The local authority is planning to convert two floors of the college, which is a protected structure, into an enterprise centre, while office and incubation units will also be provided.

The plans have been put on public display at the town council headquarters on the Mall until April 18, while the public have until May 4 to submit objections, or any other submissions they feel appropriate.

Youghal Mayor Mary Linehan-Foley said there will be an enthusiastic welcome within the local community for the council’s proposals.

“St Mary’s College is a proud part of the town’s history and this major facelift will return the building to its former splendour,” she said.