Purpose

Approval of the ongoing programme development for in borough Primary School special places.

Decision

RESOLVED That Cabinet:-

1. Note the progress made since the October 2025 Cabinet decision, including the appointment of Waterton Academy Trust as the preferred strategic education partner, development of interim provision from September 2026 and completion of further feasibility, survey, design and cost planning work for The Mill.
2. Approve the revised capital allocation of £7.37m for the refurbishment and development of The Mill to provide 40 specialist primary places, replacing the previously approved budget of £2.97m.
3. Approve the revised delivery programme, recognising that interim provision will operate from Kings Oak during 2026/27 while the permanent provision at The Mill is progressed.
4. Delegate authority to the Executive Director Children’s Services, Director of Finance and Director of Law, Democratic and Member Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, to finalise the partnership, contractual, financial, procurement and delivery arrangements necessary to progress the scheme.