New classrooms and car park proposed in major redevelopment of Ballyclare Primary School

The proposed new extension at Ballyclare Primary School

A planning application has been submitted to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council seeking approval for a major extension at Ballyclare Primary School.

The proposal includes an extension to the front of the school building on Doagh Road, the demolition of an existing two-storey block no longer in use for teaching, and the removal of temporary mobile classrooms.

Built in 1880, Ballyclare Primary School is set to benefit from a two-storey, nine-classroom extension to be constructed within the playground area, replacing eight mobile classrooms currently in use.

The development also includes a new play area and expanded car parking, increasing capacity from 24 to 38 spaces.

The proposed site design for Ballyclare Primary School

Elevations for new extension at Ballyclare Primary School

A public consultation on the plans was held at Sixmile Leisure Centre in Ballyclare in June, giving local residents the opportunity to view and comment on the proposals.

An online consultation document states that the project aims to deliver “a safe and permanent structure” for pupils’ education and create “a welcoming, accessible environment in the community with additional support and resource spaces.”

Currently, Ballyclare Primary School accommodates 550 pupils, with 29 teaching staff and 69 staff members in total. A transport assessment submitted with the application notes that the proposed development is not expected to increase staff or pupil numbers.

The report adds: “The drop-off system in place works well, avoiding excess congestion. The existing one-way access from School Street and exit onto Doagh Road is adequate to serve the needs of the school.”

It also confirms that there is an agreement in place between the school and the Council allowing free short-term parking for parents at two nearby car parks within walking distance — Town Square and Harrier Way off-street car park.

The school is expected to remain open during construction, according to the report.

Ground floor plan for Ballyclare Primary School

First floor plan for Ballyclare Primary School

A spokesperson for the Education Authority (EA) said:

“A planning application for Ballyclare Primary School is currently at the technical design stage of the statutory planning process. This stage is planned for completion early in 2026.

Subject to budget availability, the project would then proceed to construction, provided the statutory approvals are in place.”