Summary sheet
The project will finance Maynooth University's multiannual investment programme to develop its campus environment with high quality facilities and IT systems in support of the university's sustainability plan. Being located in the Just Transition Territory of Ireland, it is potentially eligible for complementary grant financing under the Public Sector Loan Facility (PSLF).
The aim is to invest in the development of a sustainable campus environment with energy-efficient, high-quality facilities and IT systems to support the delivery of the University's strategic objectives with regard to excellence in research and teaching. The project will create positive externalities as it will promote access to high-quality public higher education, which benefits society and the broader economy, mainly in terms of skills development and upgrading.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive 2011/92/EU (as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU) does not specifically mention educational activities, leaving it at the discretion of the responsible competent authorities to request an EIA on the basis of the location and scale of the works concerned. However, universities (including research and student residences) may fall under Annex II of EIA Directive 2011/92/EU with respect to urban development. Social and environmental aspects as well as any issues related to historical and cultural heritage will be verified during the appraisal. This includes verification of compliance with accessibility features for people with reduced mobility. The project will include new buildings and potentially renovations, which will comply with the 2010/31/EU Directive on the energy performance of buildings and Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency. The project is expected to contribute to climate action and environmental sustainability (CA&ES) objectives, in particular to climate mitigation, climate adaptation, and sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources.
The promoter will have to ensure that contracts for implementation of the project have been or will be tendered in accordance with the applicable EU procurement legislation, Directive 2014/24/EU as well as Directive 89/665/EEC as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the EU, with publication of tender notices in the EU Official Journal, as and where required.