New purpose-built student accommodation at Maynooth University, County Kildare, was officially opened yesterday (September 8) by Minister for Further and Higher, Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD.

Vision Contracting acted as the primary contractor for the The Teach Uí Bhuachalla (Buckley House) student accommodation project, which consists of 109 single en-suite study bedrooms and seven wheelchair accessible single study bedrooms. They are the first beds delivered under the government's €100 million Short-Term Activation Programme announced in April 2022.

The project team for the accommodation also included Demesne Architects, quantity surveyors O'Byrne Jenkins, civil and structural engineers CORA Consulting, and mechanical and electrical engineers Colman Reynolds Associates.

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Speaking at the official opening, Minister Lawless welcomed the achievement: "This is a proud day for our sector. The delivery of Teach Uí Bhuachalla Student Accommodation is not just a milestone for Maynooth University, it marks a significant step forward in how we deliver student housing across Ireland.

"As the first project completed under the Government's innovative Short-Term Activation Programme, it sets a new benchmark for what can be achieved through strategic investment in purpose-built accommodation that supports student success and well-being. Teach Uí Bhuachalla Student Accommodation offers secure, high-quality housing that enables students to focus on their studies, build lasting connections, and fully engage in university life."

In line with programme requirements, 30% of the beds at Buckley House will be reserved for students from the targeted disadvantaged or under-represented groups. The opening marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing demand for student housing and reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting access to higher education.

Welcoming the new student accommodation, Maynooth University President Professor Eeva Leinonen added: "At a time when there is a well-recognised shortage of student accommodation across Ireland, this development reflects our commitment to supporting our students with safe, modern, and accessible housing that enhances their university experience. I would like to thank Minister Lawless and the Government for their support in making this important project a reality."

Photo credit: Demesne Architects