Decision

To approve, award and enter into a Letter of Intent with Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd in the sum of £1,769,394.30 + VAT relating to the proposed construction project to expand Sarum Academy. The intention is that the Letter of Intent will be superseded by a formal construction contract once all of the costs associated with the whole project are agreed. The works to be undertaken under the Letter of Intent are limited to enabling and Phase 1 works only. The letter of intent will run from 06/07/26 to 25/09/26.

Reasons for the decision

The proposed construction project at Sarum Academy to which this record of officer decision relates are set out in the School Capital Programme 2026/27 to 2031/32 as set out in Appendix 3 of the budget approved by Full Council on 24 February 2026.

There is a requirement to expand Sarum Academy by in order to meet a forecast rise in demand for school places at the school and to ensure that the Council meets its statutory duty to ensure that sufficient school places are available.

I confirm that in making this decision I have considered the following in line with Wiltshire Council’s Constitution:

Key decision requirements: Yes

Views of relevant cabinet member(s), committee chairman, area board(s): Yes

Consultation with cabinet member(s), the Leader and Scrutiny (for Executive decisions taken under Emergency Powers): NA

Consultation in accordance with the council’s consultation guidance and the views emanating from that process: NA

Implication of any council policy, initiative, strategy or procedure: Yes

Staffing, financial and legal implications: Yes

The assessment of any associated risks in accordance with the Council’s risk management strategy: Yes

Involvement of appropriate statutory officers and/or corporate directors and directors: NA

Regional or national guidance from other bodies where relevant: NA

The council’s constitution, including the Procurement and Contract Rules (Part 10) and the Financial Regulations and Procedure Rules (Part 9), all relevant guidance, legislation, codes of practice, and protocols: Yes

Alternative options considered

There are no other viable options to ensure that sufficient school places can be provided in the area.