To consider a report of the Executive Member for Children's Services.

The Executive Member for Children’s Services submitted a report which referred to the Council’s a statutory duty to provide sufficient places in schools and early years settings. It noted that to support the achievement of this duty, and to meet any risks in relation to school conditions and access, the Council had received Basic Need capital funding (for expansion of pupil places) of £7.842m for 2021/22 and a nil allocation for 2022/23. The report provided further details and an update on the progress that had been made on existing projects to meet demand for places as projected in January 2021. It set out the Council’s proposals to address the shortfall of places, it being noted that all proposals were at the budget estimate stage and would be met from within the grant allocation available. In particular it provided an update on the current position in relation to Stamford Park Schools. In discussion, Members noted the unprecedented recent demand which had been placed on school admissions. A significant factor in this was the Hong Kong visa scheme; whilst this covered a five year period, evidence suggested that demand was now stabilising. Members were reminded of the limited control the LEA possessed over schools’ admission arrangements, and the impact of applications from outside the borough. Extensive monitoring and planning was in place to assist the Council in manging envisaged needs, and the Council was continuing to liaise with the DfE and Regional Schools Commissioner to assist with identified pressures. The Executive’s thanks were accorded to all who were involved in this significant work.

RESOLVED - That the Executive agrees the proposals contained within the report be agreed as the detailed capital programme for 2021/22, specifically:

1.    Note the demand for primary and secondary school places in Section 2 and 4 of the report.

2.    Note the feasibility study and options appraisal in Section 3 of the report for refurbishment and expansion of the now amalgamated Stamford Park Primary School and approve the proposal not proceed with the expansion of Stamford Park Primary School and to reallocate the £8m budget and instead proceed with the expansion of The Willows Primary School.

3.    Approve the expansion proposals detailed in Section 6 of the report:

Willows Primary School (PAN 45 to 60)

Templemoor Infant School (PAN 60 to 90)

Moorlands Junior School (PAN 60 to 90)

Davyhulme Primary School (PAN 70 to 90)

4.    Note and agree the completion of previous schemes and the demand for early years places in Section 5 of the report.