Purpose

To enable delivery of a relocated and expanded primary school providing additional pupil places to meet forecast demand arising from housing growth in East Carterton, and to allow the project to progress through the planning, design and procurement stages in line with the agreed programme.

Decision

Approval was given to the release of a further £0.760m development funding (bringing total released funding to £1.9m) to enable Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust to progress planning, detailed design and procurement.

The increased funding requirement will be met from additional S106 contributions, the Net Zero Carbon Fund and Basic Need contingency.

Reasons for the decision

·         The existing Brize Norton CE Primary School is constrained by its current site and accommodation.

·         A new school site at East Carterton has been secured through the associated housing development.

·         Updated cost estimates reflect inflationary pressures, additional S278 works, Net Zero Carbon requirements and increased professional fees.

·         Approval of the OBC and associated funding release is required to maintain the programme for delivery in time for the 2028/29 academic year.

Alternative options considered

Alternative options were considered through the options appraisal at Initial Business Case stage, including retaining the school on the existing site. These were discounted due to site constraints and inability to meet forecast demand. The preferred option to relocate and expand the school to the East Carterton site was confirmed as the most cost‑effective and deliverable solution