Repeated review of new special school buildings irks councils – Tim Warneford featured in schools week
In a recent Schools Week article, councils voiced frustration over repeated reviews and approvals for new special school building projects, which they say could cause delays in much-needed provision. A Department for Education (DfE) official confirmed the new government is still assessing urgent decisions.
Tim Warneford, featured in the article, emphasised the lack of communication from the DfE on projects ranging from school rebuilding to special needs facilities. While Tim Warneford acknowledged there’s “goodwill” toward the government’s agenda, he pointed to a pressing issue: a £15 billion backlog in funding needed for repairs and replacements. This figure has grown from the DfE’s 2021 estimate of over £11 billion, with the National Audit Office later citing a £2 billion annual funding gap.
Tim expressed hope that the DfE will soon provide clearer communication on expected support and timelines.
Read the full article here.
