The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance meeting on Friday 10 January 2025 approved the sealing of a funding agreement for the expansion of Marlborough School, Woodstock. The minutes of the previous meeting were also approved.

Marlborough School Expansion Approved

Councillor Dan Levy, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation, approved the sealing of a funding agreement to release over £1 million to the River Learning Trust (RLT) for the expansion of Marlborough School in Woodstock. This expansion will increase the school's capacity from six forms of entry (6FE) to seven forms of entry (7FE), accommodating a rise in pupil numbers due to local housing growth.

The project involves constructing a new six-classroom teaching block and undertaking internal alterations, including additional changing rooms and ancillary accommodation. The total estimated capital budget for the expansion is £4.5 million, with funding to be provided through Section 106 (s106) contributions and the Council's Basic Need Contingency. The expansion is anticipated to be completed by summer 2026.

The report highlighted that the Council has a statutory duty to provide sufficient school places, and this expansion directly supports that obligation. The new building is designed to meet high environmental standards, exceeding building regulations for carbon emissions and incorporating energy-efficient features such as air source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels. The project has received full planning permission and is supported by the RLT, the Headteacher, and Governors of Marlborough CE School.

Minutes of Previous Meeting Approved

The minutes of the previous meeting held on 13 December 2024 were approved as a correct record. No declarations of interest, questions from County Councillors, or petitions and public addresses were made during the meeting.