The Portfolio Holder Decision Meeting of Harrow Council, held on Friday 2 February 2024, saw a key decision made regarding the acquisition of a site for a new Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) facility. The meeting, chaired by Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council, also formally noted the absence of declared interests, petitions, and public questions.

Acquisition of a Site for Special Educational Needs Provision

The most significant decision made at the meeting was to proceed with the acquisition of a site for a new Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) facility. This decision was made to address the increasing demand for special school places in Harrow, which is currently experiencing pressure on its existing provision. The report presented to the Leader of the Council highlighted that a shortfall in local provision leads to higher costs for placements outside the borough.

The resolution grants delegated authority to the Corporate Director, Place, in consultation with the Leader, to make an appropriate bid for the property and to enter into any necessary contracts. This authority is subject to satisfactory survey reports, valuation, due diligence, financial viability, and the development of an appropriate business case. The acquisition is seen as a strategic addition to the Council's property portfolio, aiming to deliver essential services to Harrow residents.

The report outlined several options considered and rejected, including not purchasing the site, which would risk failing to meet statutory obligations for providing sufficient school places and potentially lead to higher costs for out-of-borough placements and increased transport and residential expenses. Reviewing existing school sites was also considered, but the report noted potential risks associated with permanent changes to school sites due to fluctuating pupil numbers and future housing developments. The chosen option to purchase the property offers the opportunity to create at least 292 additional school places for pupils with special needs, subject to planning and funding.

The acquisition is considered urgent due to property transaction timescales falling outside the usual decision-making process. The decision was made without the standard call-in period, having been waived by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The report also detailed the legal implications, including the Council's duty under the Education Act 1996 to ensure sufficient school places and the presumption in favour of academies and free schools. Financial implications indicate that while the provision will be funded by a combination of grant and borrowing, the estimated avoided costs in SEN transport and high needs provision are expected to cover the capital financing costs by 2029/30.

The meeting also formally noted that no declarations of interest were made by attendees, no petitions had been received, and no public questions were put forward. The minutes of the previous meeting held on 6 June 2023 were also confirmed.