Decision

The Interim Director of Capital Programmes has approved the award of a contract for the conversion of an existing conservatory to form a new breakout classroom at St Bridgets CE Primary School to Cunard Construction Limited (Company Number 09778718) for a 10 week term at a contract price of £156,914 as the highest scoring tenderer in accordance with the most advantageous tender criteria.

Reasons for the decision

The proposal seeks to convert the existing conservatory at St Bridget’s CE Primary School into a breakout classroom, thereby providing a dedicated, multi-functional space separate from the main teaching areas. The development is intended to support inclusive learning by delivering a flexible environment in which, unlike a traditional classroom setting, furniture can be readily reconfigured to accommodate a variety of teaching and learning activities. The proposed space will offer a quieter and more controlled environment, suitable for small group works and one-to-one interventions. Furthermore, the provision of this purpose-designed facility will remove the need for the school to utilise corridors or residual spaces for learning, thereby improving the overall quality and functionality of the teaching environment.

Funding for the works will be sourced from the Councils School Condition Allocation Grant. The proposed works will support the school’s delivery of provisions for children with SEND.

A detailed specification, drawings and schedule of works for the required work was issued in April 2026 to eight suppliers and a tender exercise undertaken. Four bids were received. The bids were evaluated having regard to the most advantageous tenderer criteria as detailed in the exempt Appendix, with the following weightings Price 40%, Quality 50% and Social Value 10%.

Cunard Construction Limited was the preferred tenderer, scoring the highest having regard to the evaluation criteria.
In addition to the contract price the Council will need to bear the cost of further fees associated with this project being £26.675.39 for professional fees, clerk of works, and CDM Regulations.

Appendix 1 contains exempt information as defined in Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. It is in the public interest to exclude the press and public under Paragraph 3 ‘Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding the information).’

Alternative options considered

An alternative option considered was the creation of breakout spaces within circulation areas. However, the school has limited surplus space, and corridor environments are not considered suitable for teaching purposes due to their lack of privacy, poor acoustic conditions, and general unsuitability as learning environments.

A further option involved the installation of an external modular ‘pod’. This option is not considered suitable due to the school’s constrained outdoor space. The introduction of an additional structure would result in the loss of valuable playground provision, which is an essential resource for pupils.

Given that a suitable internal space already exists and can be readily adapted, the provision of an external pod is considered unnecessary. The conversion of the existing conservatory is therefore the most appropriate, efficient, and least disruptive solution.