Maynooth University acquires St Patrick's College

MAYNOOTH University (MU) is to acquire a significant part of the South Campus from St Patrick’s College, a landmark decision that could yield considerable benefits for the Maynooth community and wider region.

Since becoming an independent university in 1997, MU has rented part of the South Campus from St Patrick’s College and today relies on it heavily for classrooms, lecture halls, and staff offices.

This acquisition of 11.3Ha (28ac) and 24,000 square metres of built space will end this rental arrangement and provides capacity that cannot be replicated on the existing North Campus.

While further details will be announced upon completion of the transaction, the decision to acquire is underpinned by a rigorous independent evaluation process, with both Maynooth University's Governing Authority and the Trustees of St Patrick's College formally approving the transaction.

The Minister of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD was supportive of the move, reflecting the acquisition's alignment with national higher education priorities and its benefit to the Kildare region.

This acquisition represents a significant strategic investment by MU and is a transformational next step in the development of the university and its support of the broader community. 

As well as the redevelopment of existing learning, student and staff spaces, it creates the conditions for MU to invest in community-focused facilities, including a campus swimming pool, performance space and other shared amenities that will play an important role in local life.

For the 231-years-old St Patrick's College the transaction enables it to advance plans for the future development of its campus, educational programmes, and student experience, while supporting the long-term stewardship of the historic campus.

It also creates opportunities, such as the delivery of much-needed student accommodation and other initiatives that can contribute to the sustainable growth of the campus, town and wider area.

Professor Eeva Leinonen, President of Maynooth University, said: “This marks a significant new chapter in the development of Maynooth University and one that I am delighted to see become a reality. 

"As one of Ireland's fastest-growing universities, this decision gives us the foundation to plan effectively and invest meaningfully, enabling us to realise our long-term vision for the campus.

“It also creates opportunities for future investment in facilities that support wellbeing, creativity, and community life, including a campus swimming pool, dedicated performance space and other amenities that would be shared by both the University and the wider community.

“This landmark agreement will build on the deep and longstanding partnership between Maynooth University and St Patrick's College and allows both institutions to look to the future with confidence, ensuring that this beautiful and historic campus continues to thrive as a place of learning, connection, and opportunity for many years to come.” 

St Patrick’s College, Maynooth President Rev Dr Michael Shortall said: “While St Patrick's College, Maynooth and Maynooth University are independent institutions, there has been a long history of collaboration and co-operation between us. 

"It is rooted in our shared commitment to this historic campus as a centre of learning, scholarship and service. From joint programmes to shared facilities, including our wonderful library, that relationship has enriched both academic and student communities.

“This agreement represents an important next step in that relationship. It enables both institutions to advance their respective strategic priorities while continuing to contribute together to the future of Maynooth and Irish society. The depth and richness of the relationship between us is greatly valued by both, and today's announcement strengthens it as co-custodians of this historic campus.” 

Minister James Lawless said: “This is a landmark moment for Maynooth University, for the town of Maynooth and for County Kildare.

“As one of Ireland’s fastest-growing universities, Maynooth University plays a vital role in education, research and innovation, while also making an enormous contribution to economic and social development across the region.

“The South Campus is a special part of Maynooth, with a rich history and a unique place in the life of the town.

“This investment opens up real opportunities to develop new amenities and support the University’s ambitions, while protecting and building on the character of this historic campus”.