Council ‘pursuing an interest’ to purchase old school house

SOUTH Dublin County Council is pursuing an interest in the Old School House building in Lucan Village, with a councillor describing is as something that could serve as a tourist information hub.

The property has been placed on the market on a number of occasions, with The Echo reporting in 2019 that the asking price for it was €450,000.

At that time, in response to a motion by former Cllr Danny O’Brien, the council outlined the potential costs of purchasing and developing the building, including €450k to purchase the property, refurbishment costs at a minimum of €250k and a conservation architect’s report costing approximately €15k.

This week, following the Lucan Area Committee meeting, Cllr Vicki Casserly revealed online that the council was “engaged in negotiations to purchase” the property.

A spokesperson for the council confirmed to The Echo on Wednesday that it was “pursuing an interest” in the site.

Right in the heart of the village, on Main Street, the Old School House has two derelict cottages attached to it.

According to Lucan Cllr Ed O’Brien, the site could very well have the potential to serve as a tourism information centre.

“I am delighted that the council are pursuing the purchase of the property,” Cllr O’Brien told The Echo.

“I think it is something that would be welcomed by residents of Lucan and I hope that they can conclude the negotiation successfully.

“I think it could tie in brilliantly with the tourist programme which the council is rolling out.

“It could provide a space for bicycle rental along the proposed greenway.

“It could double as something of an information stop for people visiting Lucan, a small cafe run by the council with local information – that kind of thing.

“I think that would really complement the village really well.”