Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 17, 2025

Purpose: To request funding for school expansions

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   a)      Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, the Director of Law and Governance (Monitoring Officer) and Executive Director of Finance (s151 Officer) in consultation with the Executive Member of Children, Education & Families to procure, negotiate, award and enter into a contract and complete any necessary planning requirements for Millbrook Junior School to ensure additional classes for years 3,4,5 and 6 are delivered, as set out in paragraph 5.3.   b)      Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, the Director of Law and Governance (Monitoring Officer) and Executive Director of Finance (s151 officer) in consultation with the Executive Member of Children, Education & Families to procure, negotiate, award and enter into a contract and complete any necessary planning requirements for Stanton Cross Secondary School initial design phase up to RIBA stage 1, 2+ as set out in paragraph 5.4.   c)      Noted the proposed changes to the funding of the expansion programme as detailed in paragraph 5.2.   d)      Noted the funding agreements required and transfer of funds as set out in table 4 and paragraphs 5.2 which will be completed in line with approvals set out in the Council’s Financial Regulations.         Reasons for Recommendations:   a)      The Council’s role as a commissioner of school places, and the capital costs of securing additional school places requires strategic planning around school place planning. b)      To ensure that the Council can fulfil its statutory duties regarding providing sufficiency of school places in North Northamptonshire.   Alternative Options Considered:The other alternative option was to take no action, and this was rejected as an option on the basis that the Council has a statutory duty to secure sufficient school places for all school-aged children.