University of Galway to Convert 200-Year-Old Mill into New School of Law Building

The University of Galway plans to convert the McLaughlin Building, a 200-year-old former flour mill, into a new School of Law center. The project includes removing the roof and fifth floor and adding two new floors, increasing the building to six storeys and a height of 30 meters.

The refurbished facility will offer academic spaces, administrative areas, and student welfare facilities, expanding the floor area from 2,962 sq m to 3,962 sq m. The university aims to retain two hydroelectric turbines for power generation as part of the EUIIA WATERWAY Project, which supports Galway City Council's climate initiatives.

The project is expected to take 24 months, with a planning decision anticipated by February 18, 2026. Strong support for the initiative has been expressed by the Galway City Council's Climate Action Department.