Fortview National School served the community of Clones until 2009 and is now in need of extensive renovation
A former Church of Ireland schoolhouse built around 1901, sitting on approximately 0.62 acres in Clones.This is a substantial renovation project requiring complete refurbishment.​
An old classroom at Fortview School, Newtownbutler Road, Clones, Co Monaghan
​Tell me more about the place…
Fortview National School on the Newtownbutler Road was designed by Thomas Elliott, a 19th century Co Fermanagh architect responsible for churches and community buildings across Ulster. This craggy limestone structure has more in common with a small church than a conventional schoolhouse, the austere façade having a tower and gabled porch that give it an ecclesiastical appearance. The building served the local community for over a century before closing in 2009 and has been vacant ever since.
The building has over 1,600 sq ft of interior floorspace and currently comprises two large former classroom halls, staff offices, entrance areas, and toilet facilities.
Old bathrooms at Fortview School, Newtownbutler Road, Clones, Co Monaghan
​The bad news?
This is a complete renovation job. The building has been empty for over a decade, which means you can expect the usual litany of problems associated with vacant period properties: damp penetration, possibly deteriorating limestone that will need specialist repair, likely roof issues, and outdated or non-existent services.
The architectural details that make it distinctive – that tower, the gabled porch, the limestone construction – will require skilled conservation work rather than standard building practices. The separate road access to the rear portion of the site could be an asset, but developing it will require careful planning navigation.​
An old staff room at Fortview School, Newtownbutler Road, Clones, Co Monaghan
​And the good news?
You’re buying a piece of genuine local history with real architectural merit, designed by a noted architect, built to last and surrounded by other historical artefacts such as the abbey ruins, the high cross and the round tower. With plenty of internal floorspace, it offers substantial room for conversion. The two large classroom halls could become impressive living spaces with high ceilings and original detail.
The 0.62-acre site provides options for gardens, workshops, or even separate development on that rear portion with its own road access, subject to planning. The property should qualify for various restoration and conservation grants, and potentially vacant and derelict homes grants. These could offset a meaningful portion of your restoration costs.​
An old classroom at Fortview School, Newtownbutler Road, Clones, Co Monaghan
​How much to buy it?
Monaghan Property Services is hoping for offers in excess of €150,000 and the property is being sold subject to conditions of sale from Monaghan County Council.
​And to fix it up?
Budget upwards of €180,000 for a sympathetic restoration that addresses structural issues, replaces services, deals with damp, and brings the building up to habitable standards while respecting its heritage character.
​What will I end up with?
A distinctive period building with genuine character and historical significance, in a town with medieval roots and modern amenities.
​Who should I talk to?
Contact Monaghan Property Sales (047 72323) if you reckon every day could be a school day.