Major Step Forward In Plans For New Tertiary Education Campus In Wexford

Plans for a new tertiary education campus in Wexford town have taken a significant step forward, with the preliminary business case now submitted to Government for evaluation.

Minister James Browne has confirmed to South East Radio that the business case, developed jointly by South East Technological University (SETU) and Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), has been approved by the relevant governing bodies.

A finalised version was submitted to the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Department of Further and Higher Education yesterday.

The proposed development would bring together higher education, further education and research facilities in Wexford town.

Minister Browne says the project is a top priority for him and is critical to driving the local and regional economy.

Speaking to South East Radio, he said he had worked closely with Minister James Lawless to ensure the project was treated as a priority for Wexford and the wider South East.

He confirmed that the HEA and the Department will now evaluate the proposal, with that process expected to be completed before the end of the year.

The preliminary business case has been developed over recent months, with SETU and Waterford Wexford ETB holding a number of meetings. The HEA and Department officials have also worked closely with both organisations in progressing the proposal under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Programme.

Minister Browne says work is also continuing on the wider development of the 48.5-acre site, with Wexford County Council leading the masterplan.

Alongside the proposed education campus, the overall development is expected to include sports facilities and improved transport links.

The Council is also progressing a compulsory purchase order for the entire site, having issued a Notice of Entry in November 2025.

Minister Browne says he wants to see that process move forward quickly, adding that Wexford has already waited too long for the development.

While the delivery timeline will depend on the project's progress through the necessary statutory and infrastructure approval processes, the submission of the preliminary business case marks an important milestone.

The proposed campus is being described as a major educational opportunity for learners in Wexford and across the South East, with the potential to transform access to further and higher education in the region.