Newbuildings campaigners urge Paul Givan to halt St Columba’s PS closure

The Newbuildings community have urged Education Minister Paul Givan to consider new housing and infrastructure plans and the village’s potential before deciding on the future of St Columba’s Primary School.

The Minister and the Education Authority have been asked to give full consideration to Newbuildings’ development potential before reaching a decision on Development Proposal 754, which recommends discontinuing provision in August 2027.

They pointed to a number of significant planning applications for 231 homes that they believe need to be considered in light of projected educational need in the village.

Gareth McFadden, Chair of St Columba’s Board of Governors said: “Our families and school community raised these issues because we could see how much Newbuildings was changing.

"We recognise the challenges facing a small school, but the village’s future cannot be judged on historic enrolment figures alone. There are substantial housing developments approved, and further opportunities ahead.

“We are asking the Minister and EA to take a fresh look at the full, up-to-date evidence and give St Columba’s a fair opportunity to grow alongside the village.”

Campaigners point out how Derry City & Strabane District Council’s Local Development Plan 2032 recognises schools as essential community infrastructure and identifies opportunities for future transport improvements at Newbuildings.

These include potential park-and-ride provision on the A5 approach to Derry, alongside wider ambitions for improved roads, walking and cycling connections, they say.

Councillor Martin Reilly, SDLP Waterside representative and Deputy Chair of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee, brings a local planning perspective.

“Good planning is about more than providing houses. It is about ensuring communities have the schools, services, transport and facilities needed to support families.

“With significant development approved around Newbuildings, it is important that decisions about educational provision are informed by the most current evidence and a proper understanding of the village’s future needs,” he stated.

Joe McQuaid, Bradley’s Pharmacy, stressed the importance of developments in the village.

“It’s encouraging to see investment and new homes coming into Newbuildings. More residents can create opportunities for local businesses, support existing services and bring fresh energy into the village.”

Orla Ferguson, a parent at the school and head of a vibrant Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at St Columba’s said: “My family is from Newbuildings, so I’ve always felt connected to the village. It was the natural place to raise our own family.

“What I love most is the sense of community. People know and look out for one another.

“The local school and clubs, where our children can learn, make friends and get involved, were key reasons for choosing to live here. It’s lovely to see new homes and families coming to the area.

"I hope Newbuildings continues to grow while preserving the schools, clubs and community spirit that make it special.”

DUP Alderman Niree McMorris has already written to the Minister raising concerns about the implications of removing educational provision.

In her letter, she stated: “Once educational infrastructure is removed, it is exceptionally difficult and costly to replace.”

She stressed: “Newbuildings has opportunities ahead, and decisions about schools should take account of that changing picture.

"Future housing, parental choice and the longer-term needs of families all deserve careful consideration before an irreversible decision is made.”

The consultation closes on November 10. Representations can be made at [email protected].