Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 13, 2026

Purpose: To seek Cabinet approval to draw down funding from the Children’s and Families, Learning and Support sections of the Capital Plan to enable the rebuild of Woodley School and College to progress on the former school site on Fernside Road, Almondbury.   There is continued engagement with the senior leadership teams at Woodley School and College.     Senior managers regularly engage with PCAN (Parents of Children with Additional Needs). PCAN is the parent-led forum for all parents and carers of children and young people (aged 0-25 years) with additional needs in Kirklees.     

Content:   1)    That approval be given to the draw down of capital funds as detailed in Appendix 3 of this report to enable the procurement and appointment of a building contractor to construct a 180 place new build Communication & Interaction / Autism school to replace the existing Woodley School and College site at Dog Kennel Bank, Huddersfield and to facilitate the completion of this project, in line with procurement regulations and the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules.   2)    That in order to manage the successful delivery of the new build Woodley School and College site at Fernside Avenue without the need to return to Cabinet should any further unexpected costs arise that exceed the approved budget as stated in Appendix 3, authority be delegated, if required, to the Service Directors for Development and for Learning and Early Support in consultation with the Service Director for Finance (S151 Officer) to use the provisions within the Council’s Financial Procedure Rules dated June 2025, specifically paragraphs 3.9 to 3.10.   3)    That authority to the Executive Director of Place to authorise the award of the contract to ensure that a construction contract can be signed for the proposed new build school and the project completed so that the required additional SEND school places can be successfully delivered.   4)    That authority be delegated to the Service Director – Legal, Governance and Commissioning to enter into any necessary legal agreements or instruments to facilitate the recommendations.