Ownership question at former Longwood school

Issues surrounding ownership of the former St Fintina's Post Primary School in Longwood seem to be holding up the making of decisions regarding future use of the property, which has fallen into a derelict state since it was vacated over seven years ago.

The building has lain empty since the new secondary school- Coláiste Clavin- opened in 2017 and has been falling into further disrepair as the years have passed to become an eyesore in the centre of the village.

It was originally owned by the St Finian's Diocesan Trust but according to LMETB, the building was purchased by the then County Meath VEC in the 1960's.

When asked about the property, LMETB CEO Martin O'Brien said: “LMETB are in the process of securing good title deeds to the property and once this is achieved, the board will make a decision on whether to dispose of the property or determine its future use. We understand that the building was purchased by Meath VEC in the 1960's from St Finian's Diocesan Trust but there does not appear to be title deeds available for the property.”

A query was submitted to the St Finian's Diocesan Trust but at time of going to press, a response had not yet been received.

Local Cllr Noel French said: “It is sad to see the building sitting there unused. It could be used for community purposes. There is already a number of derelict sites in Longwood that bring the village down. It is sad to see it there so long. Parking is also required in that area.”