Major Step Forward for Wexford University Campus as James Browne Confirms Green Light

Housing Minister James Browne says the long-awaited development of a full South East Technological University campus in Wexford Town has taken a major step forward, following approval of its preliminary business case.

Speaking on South East Radio's Morning Mix, Minister Browne said the approval means the project can now progress to detailed design and preparations for planning permission.

It also allows the university to begin examining what courses and educational facilities will be provided at the new campus.

The proposed development forms part of a wider master plan for Wexford Town, incorporating new housing, schools, sports facilities and improved road infrastructure.

Minister Browne said the project has been a long-standing ambition for County Wexford.

He stressed that the new campus should be on an equal footing with SETU's existing facilities in Waterford and Carlow.

"I fully expect that Wexford will have the same standard as Carlow," he told Morning Mix.

"This is a full, if you like, equal part of the University of the South East, not some add-on."

The Minister said the development would provide greater opportunities for young people to remain in Wexford while pursuing third-level education, rather than having to move away from home.

He also highlighted the importance of the recently announced funding for a new access road, which will help open up lands earmarked for educational, residential and sporting developments.

However, questions remain about the provision of student accommodation as part of the proposed campus.

Responding to concerns about whether student housing would be included, Minister Browne said he fully supports its development but warned that it should not delay progress on the wider project.

"Sometimes perfection can be the enemy of the good," he said.

"If you wait till everything is ready to go, you can only go as fast as the slowest piece of the puzzle."

He added that student accommodation should be a key part of the overall development, but work on other elements must continue in the meantime.

Minister Browne said he is working closely with Higher Education Minister James Lawless, who grew up in Gorey, to progress the project as quickly as possible.

The announcement coincides with SETU graduation ceremonies taking place at the National Opera House in Wexford.

Paying tribute to lecturers and staff who have supported third-level education in the county over many years, Minister Browne said their dedication had helped bring the ambition of a full university campus closer to reality.

While the approval represents a significant milestone, the proposed campus must still progress through detailed design and the planning process before construction can begin.