Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: December 18, 2025

Purpose:   This report will summarise the case for an expansion of provision for learners aged 4-19 across the city and will seek Cabinet approval to consult.

Content: THIS MATTER WAS TAKEN AS AN URGENT ITEM OF BUSINESS.   Appendix 5 is exempt from disclosure as it contains information pursuant to paragraph 16 of schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972   Councillor Huw Thomas declared a personal & non-prejudicial interest in this report as he is a governor of Ysgol Glan Morfa.   Councillor Peter Bradbury declared a personal & non-prejudicial interest in this report as he is a governor of Ty Gwyn, Councillor Bradbury left the meeting and took no part in decision making.   Councillor Chris Weaver and Councillor Norma Mackie declared a personal & non-prejudicial interest in this report as they are governors of Cathays High School.   Councillor Peter Littlechild declared a personal & non-prejudicial interest in this report as he is a governor of Pontprennau Primary School.                 RESOLVED: that   (i)          the update on demand for specialist additional learning needs places be noted.   (ii)        Officers be authorised to consult on proposals as outlined in paragraphs 4 and 6.   (iii)       Ahead of determination of proposals and Ministerial approval,  authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education and Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation & Performance, Director Governance & Legal Services and S.151 Officer to proceed with the design, procurement and implementation of refurbishment works to schools summarised in paragraph 4 to urgently provide additional places in the 2026/27 school year.   (iv)       Ahead of determination of proposals and Ministerial approval, authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education to proceed with the design development of schemes summarised in paragraph 6 that would take effect later than the 2026/27 year, to ensure proposals for the expansion of specialist provision are not delayed.   (v)        the negotiations on a site in the northeast of Cardiff to allow the delivery of the expanded Greenhill Special School be noted.   (vi)       the potential revenue and capital implications to the Council arising from all proposals be noted.   (vii)     the consideration of relocation of T? Storrie Children’s Home be noted.   (viii)    It be noted that officers will bring a report on the outcome of the consultation to a future meeting to seek authorisation as to whether to proceed to publish proposals in accordance with section 48 of The School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013.