Former Offaly convent and school to be turned into housing development Reporter: '); A former Offaly convent and school is set to be converted into a residential development as plans for the project have been unveiled. The Sophia Housing Association has lodged an application for planning permission for a substantial residential development at the former Presentation Convent /school and the adjoining Parish lands on Patrick Street in Portarlington. The over 4,000 square metre project will include building on land attached to the convent between Coláiste Íosagáin and the Tullamore Road and property between St Joseph's Parish Church and the Bog Road.