MIC 14 Limerick Development Site L08

MIC 14 | Limerick Development Site L08

Masterplan Objective 02 Development of New Buildings and Facilities

THURLES CAMPUS

The incorporation of what was formerly known as St Patrick's College Thurles, in 2016 marked a major new development direction for the MIC. Essentially, the building stock on the Thurles campus consists of the College building alone. Originally constructed in the 1830’s and modified and extended throughout its lifetime, the College building stands majestically in the heart of expansive grounds totalling circa 24.5 hectares. MIC Thurles Campus, therefore, offers huge scope for development. See: MIC 4 | Thurles Existing Campus Plan - p21

Following extensive internal consultation, the following key areas have been identified:

Modern Teaching Spaces Teaching spaces within the main building are limited in terms of their flexibility and capacity. While works completed and planned will improve the facilities on a temporary basis, the College acknowledges that adequately equipped, purpose-built teaching accommodation is required to cater for larger cohorts.

Student Centre Given the current student numbers and anticipated growth, there is a need for a dedicated Student Centre that will support the student journey through MIC and provide a place where students can relax, connect with one another and be supported. Accommodation could include student common rooms, café/bar, contemplative space, retail units, radio station, alumni offices, rooms for Clubs & Societies and office spaces.

Canteen Accommodation The growth of student numbers at MIC Thurles has put increasing pressure on the catering facilities. The current Canteen location is constrained in terms of physical expansion. It is also not best placed for kitchen facilities including deliveries and associated service yard.

Administration The need for office accommodation to support an expanded offering at MIC Thurles is obvious. It is envisaged that the existing College building would provide much of this accommodation, with additional space being available as other facilities, currently accommodated within the College building, are relocated to purpose-built accommodation.

Student Residential Accommodation The Residential Wing of the College building was extensively refurbished in 2016 creating 36 en-suite bedrooms with shared living accommodation organised across three floors.

In the context of growing student numbers, the College recognises the need to expand its offering and as such two locations have been identified on-campus for the development of Student Residential Accommodation in the short and long term.