Council Motion Advocates For A Secondary School In Newtown

Councillors Paul O’Brien and Stephen Stokes have jointly called for the establishment of a secondary school in Newtownmountkennedy, addressing the pressing educational needs of the growing population in the area.

Together they have submitted a motion to Wicklow County Council calling on the Department of Education to deliver such a facility.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Paul O'Brien also serves as Chairperson of Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB). Cllr O'Brien stated: "We need to provide decisive educational opportunities, so that our young people can reach their full potential."

Both councillors believe that an integrated approach is needed for a secondary school. With Newtownmountkennedy rapidly expanding in recent years, both councillors have emphasised the urgent need for local infrastructure to keep pace, especially in the education sector.

Currently, students from Newtownmountkennedy are forced to travel to neighbouring towns such as Greystones, Kilcoole, and Wicklow, for second level education, a situation that both Cllr O’Brien and Cllr Stokes describe as unsustainable.

Cllr Stephen Stokes also serves as Chairperson of the Transport, Infrastructure & Emergency Services committee of Wicklow County Council.

He added: "It's quite remarkable that Ireland is building so many houses, but not ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to cater for growth. We must be ambitious for change. Not only does this place a huge strain on existing schools, but it puts a lot of extra vehicles on to the road. If we also want to reduce traffic and emissions, it makes sense to provide local facilities such as schools."

In the statement, Cllr Paul O’Brien highlighted the strain on families, saying:

“Our community is full of potential, but we need services to match the growth. The lack of a secondary school in Newtownmountkennedy means that families are under unnecessary pressure, with long commutes and overcrowded schools in nearby areas. It is time to invest in Newtown and ensure that young people have access to quality education right where they live. Such a school would also boost access for people living in Killadreenan, Newcastle, Roundwood and other areas.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes echoed these sentiments, pointing to the growing young population and the long-term benefits of a local secondary school.

Cllr Stokes added: "Newtownmountkennedy has one of the fastest-growing populations in County Wicklow. The young families moving into the area need a secondary school that can cater to the educational needs of their children. This is not just about convenience, it’s about planning for the future and giving the next generation the best possible start in life.”

The two councillors have submitted a formal motion to Wicklow County Council, seeking immediate attention from the Department of Education to develop a new secondary school. They are also calling for consultation with local stakeholders, including parents, educators, and community groups, to ensure the project reflects the needs of the community.

Cllr Paul O'Brien concluded: “We are asking the Department of Education to prioritise Newtownmountkennedy in their upcoming development plans. This is a vital investment in our young people and the future of our area.”