A new primary school building is to be developed on the grounds of the old Edendork Hall after planning permission for the project was granted.
Mid Ulster District Council passed the plans for the building of the new Edendork Primary school at the site of the historic building.
A petition had been launched earlier this year to save the old dance hall, which had fallen into disrepair in recent years.
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The new 11 classroom primary school has finally been given the go-ahead however after a meeting of the council’s planning committee this week.
Another major development scheme, a new leisure hub in the Gortgonis area of Coalisland , was also rubber stamped by councillors this week.
Speaking after planning permission was granted for both projects, chair of the committee Cathal Mallaghan said the new school will help to address issues around car access and parking in Edendork.
“In Edendork, the new school will create modern educational facilities for teachers and pupils alike, while also addressing the challenges which the school has faced on its existing site, particularly around vehicular access and parking” Cllr Mallaghan said.
“The Gortgonis scheme will transform the current facilities, greatly enhancing the opportunities for physical activity and play, and bringing significant benefits to the local community.
“Our planning system has a key role to play not only in ensuring that communities have space to live and work, but also to enjoy social and leisure activities, with all the health and well-being benefits that brings.”
Speaking to MyTyrone earlier this year, school principal Anne McAlinden said parents and the overwhelming majority of the local community were behind the building of the school.
"Building a new school is really meeting the needs of the present day,” she said.
“The building has been disused and is in a very dilapidated state at the minute.
“If you are from this area you would know it can be potentially very hazardous for not only their children but their families as well as passers by as there is a lack of parking.”
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