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Minister Lawless marks the commencement of works on new STEM Building at Atlantic Technological University’s (ATU) Galway City campus
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, visited Atlantic Technological University’s Galway City campus on Monday, November 10, to turn the sod and officially mark the commencement of construction on the new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Building. This project is one of eleven new buildings being delivered in the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programme.
The new building will comprise approximately 5,500 m² and will provide state-of-the-art teaching, learning, and laboratory spaces in STEM disciplines, predominantly serving Engineering, Science, and Computing.
Located on the east side of the campus facing Ballybane Road, this development will significantly enhance ATU’s capacity to deliver high-quality education and research in areas critical to Ireland’s future skills needs.
Speaking at the Galway City campus, Minister Lawless said:
Today marks a major milestone for ATU and for higher education in the West of Ireland. The new STEM Building is more than bricks and mortar, it’s an investment in innovation, in talent, and in the future of our economy.
This facility will offer cutting-edge spaces for engineering, science, and computing, disciplines that are crucial to Ireland’s competitiveness and sustainability. It reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting Technological Universities as engines of regional development and opportunity.
By expanding capacity and modernising infrastructure, we’re ensuring that students and staff have the resources they need to succeed, and that Galway continues to be a hub for knowledge, creativity, and enterprise.”
Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, said:
The new STEM Building will create a dynamic environment for teaching, learning, and research, designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
It will enable us to meet growing demand in STEM disciplines and strengthen our engagement with industry partners, supporting skills development and economic growth across the region. Last month the Minister also turned the sod on another major development on our Letterkenny campus and we look forward to further developments in the future across ATU. I want to thank the Minister, the Department, the HEA, NDFA and all those involved in bringing this project to fruition, including our own team in ATU. We look forward to seeing this landmark building take shape here in Galway.”
Henry McGarvey, VP with responsibility for Campus Infrastructure & IT, added:
“The commencement of construction on the STEM Building is a proud moment for our ATU community. This facility will not only enhance the student experience but also position ATU as a leader in STEM education and research.
It will provide modern, purpose-built spaces that reflect the ambitions of our staff and students and the needs of the industries we serve. We are excited to see this project progress and to welcome future generations into a world-class learning environment.”
This project is being delivered under Project Ireland 2040, which recognises that investment in education is central to achieving a strong, balanced economy.
Completion of the building is expected in Q3 2027.
Photo caption: Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, and ATU President Dr Orla Flynn officially turn the sod to mark the commencement of construction on the new STEM Building at ATU’s Galway City campus.
Aidan Haughey
Communications Manager
Tel: +353 87 961 8355
