New equestrian training centre breaks ground in Kilkenny
Work has begun on a state-of-the-art educational facility at Grennan Equestrian Centre in Thomastown, Kilkenny. This development forms part of a wider strategic investment to enhance further education and training opportunities in the south-east region.
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Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 1 min read
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, officially commenced construction at Grennan Equestrian Centre in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, marking a significant step in the Further Education and Training (FET) Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Programme (SIUP).
The project will replace the existing prefabricated buildings with a modern, multi-purpose facility featuring classrooms, a canteen, laundry, tack room, and additional accommodation. Local company Ormonde Construction Limited has been contracted for the works, which are expected to take around fourteen months to complete. The development also includes improvements to site infrastructure such as roadways, footpaths, parking, drainage, and upgrades to fire safety systems.
Minister Lawless highlighted the importance of the centre in providing specialised horsemanship and equine studies training, vital to the south-east's equine sector. He thanked all involved, including Dr Lindsay Malone, CEO of Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB), SOLAS, and the design team, for their dedication. Minister of State Marian Harkin emphasised the project’s role in fostering professional skills and animal welfare standards. KCETB Director of FET Martha Bolger and SOLAS CEO Deirdre McDonnell both welcomed the investment, noting its transformative impact on learner experience and employment pathways within the equine industry.
The project will replace the existing prefabricated buildings with a modern, multi-purpose facility featuring classrooms, a canteen, laundry, tack room, and additional accommodation. Local company Ormonde Construction Limited has been contracted for the works, which are expected to take around fourteen months to complete. The development also includes improvements to site infrastructure such as roadways, footpaths, parking, drainage, and upgrades to fire safety systems.
Minister Lawless highlighted the importance of the centre in providing specialised horsemanship and equine studies training, vital to the south-east's equine sector. He thanked all involved, including Dr Lindsay Malone, CEO of Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB), SOLAS, and the design team, for their dedication. Minister of State Marian Harkin emphasised the project’s role in fostering professional skills and animal welfare standards. KCETB Director of FET Martha Bolger and SOLAS CEO Deirdre McDonnell both welcomed the investment, noting its transformative impact on learner experience and employment pathways within the equine industry.
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