PLANS for an Applied Science & IT building for Limerick Institute of Technology’s (LIT) Moylish Campus have progressed as the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science approved the Higher Education PPP Programme.
The Government approval to proceed to the next stage of development is a significant milestone for the Higher Education PPP Programme. The development will enhance the LIT campus as it moves towards becoming a Technological University.
The new purpose-built, 5,200 square metre building will accommodate science labs, flat teaching facilities, computer labs, tutorial rooms, breakout and meeting spaces.
Welcoming the Government announcement President of LIT Professor Vincent Cunnane said the project is of “strategic importance to LIT” as well as the region, as the third-level institution continues towards becoming a Technological University.
“This new Applied Science & IT building will also help drive regional development and meet many of the skill requirements of the region as identified by the National Skills Council,” he said.
Jimmy Browne, LIT’s Vice President for Corporate Services & Capital Development added, “A strong working relationship between LIT, the HEA, the department and the NDFA has already seen this project through the planning process, and we look forward to working with all the stakeholders through the next stages of the development of what will become one of the flagship buildings for STEM research and education in the Mid West.”
The new building has been granted planning permission by Limerick City and County Council.
Chair of LIT’s Governing Body Tony Brazil said the development is another “significant milestone” and noted LIT’s “strong tradition of engaging with industry in the Mid West” ensuring graduates are “work-ready and that companies have access to the most up to date research, technology and skillset”.
He added, “This new project will further enhance that relationship and LIT’s ongoing contribution to the development of the economy in the region.”
Announcing this key milestone in the PPP programme which is to deliver 11 new higher education buildings throughout the country, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD said, “The new infrastructure to be delivered under this Programme will enhance the campus environment for students and staff, and support strengthened partnerships with industry. The buildings will have a strong focus on supporting practice-based learning, including laboratories, workshops and studios. They will also have significant flexibility to adapt to changing teaching and learning needs, and to support hybrid and remote learning.”
Minister of State and Limerick TD Niall Collins also welcomed the announcement. “The decision to progress this PPP is very positive news for the third level sector. Ongoing investment is critical and must be sustained. In particular I am very pleased that the LIT proposal has progressed and will go to tender in early 2021. The ongoing development of the LIT campus is a high priority for me which I will continue to drive and support in our new Department of Further and Higher Education.”
