Purpose

The report seeks approval to vire up to £0.129m of High Needs Capital Allocation to Audenshaw Primary School to improve accessibility to various areas of the school.

Decision

(i)                That approval be granted for a budget virement of £0.129m in High Needs Capital Allocation to fund the accessibility improvements at Audenshaw Primary School.

(ii)             That approval be granted for the Council to proceed to tender the works via STAR Procurement.

Reasons for the decision

The proposed works are essential to meet the care and accessibility needs of pupils with special education needs and disabilities within a mainstream school setting.  The investment supports inclusive education and aligns with the council’s statutory responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice.

Completing these works will ensure future readiness to accommodate more pupils with similar needs, which reduces reliance on out-of-borough placements.  

Alternative options considered

Do nothing – this option was rejected as this would not enable fair access to the school.