Decision details

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Learning seeking approval to spend up to the agreed budget of £7.5m on the construction of a new 2 Form Entry primary school, demolition of the existing school and reinstatement of playing fields.

Cabinet had previously agreed on 29^th June 2009 (i) to add £7.5 million to the Children's Services and Learning Capital Programme for the rebuild of Newlands Primary School; (ii)  To rebuild Newlands Primary School as a two form entry primary school with Early Years provision; (iii) To authorise the Executive Director for Children's Services and Learning following consultation  with the Solicitor to the Council and the Executive Director of Resources to do anything necessary in order to implement the recommendations, including but not limited to entering into contracts and obtaining all relevant consents required.

(i)  To approve in accordance with Financial Procedure Rules capital expenditure in the sum of £7,500,000 including fees from the Children’s Services and Learning Capital Programme for the construction of Newland Primary school.

1.  The Primary Strategy for Change identified Newlands Primary School as top priority for rebuilding.

2.  The new school building will provide modern learning facilities for the school.

3.  The new building will benefit from environmental enhancements and lower maintenance costs.

4.  Outdoor sports pitches and sports facilities in the school hall will be available for community use.

Consideration was given to not rebuilding Newlands Primary School but this would be contrary to the Primary Capital Strategy and so was rejected.