Decision details

The SEND Capital Strategy Implementation Plan seeks approval for a number of projects that address the condition, capacity and suitability of provisions to meet SEND need in Dorset.

(a)  That the budget allocation, as set out in the Appendix to the report of 6 September 2022, to enable a range of projects to be delivered as part of the SEND Capital Strategy, be approved. 

The projects set out total an approximate delivery of 228 new specialist places for the capital investment plus any yet to be determined variation to the PFI contract at The Sir John Colfox Academy.

(b)  That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Place, in consultation with the Executive Director for People - Children’s to enter construction contracts at the appropriate time, in line with an existing delegation.

This will be subject to the outcome of the formal consultation process in respect of each project and provided that following procurement, the project is within the set budget level of this Cabinet paper.

(c)  That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for People – Children to agree to the commencement of any required 4-week formal consultation period, in line with relevant statutory guidance.

Exercise of this delegation will be necessary if a school is to be required to formally expand their capacity by more than 10% or 20 places as part of this programme of works, at the appropriate time.

Reason for the decision

To show the progress of the implementation of the SEND capital strategy and to approve the next phase of projects for delivery.