Archived decisions

Hampshire County Council

Executive Lead Member for Children's Services (Education)

13 March 2008

Testbourne Community School, Whitchurch

Report of the Acting Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services

1

Summary

1.1

Testbourne Community School, built in 1932, is a Foundation School serving several villages and the town of Whitchurch. The school's net capacity is 780, with a current number on roll of 763 children (11-16 years).

1.2

It is now planned to refurbish the existing science laboratory accommodation to improve curriculum delivery and improve fire safety.

1.3

The Acting Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services has progressed the design of the proposed scheme at Testbourne Community School and the purpose of this report is to outline the proposals and seek approval to the scheme.

1.4

The proposed scheme will maximise wellbeing, enhance the quality of place and improve safety for all users of the school.

2

Recommendation

That the Executive Lead Member for Children's Services (Education) approves the internal refurbishment scheme at Testbourne Community School, Whitchurch, at an estimated total cost of £401,000, excluding fees.

3

Scope of the Works

3.1

A full refurbishment programme for the two first floor science laboratories will include new ceilings and lighting, new fitted furniture, new floor finishes and redecoration.

3.2

It is also proposed to carry out associated fire safety works, to include upgrading fire doors and replacement of some ceiling fire barriers identified by the Fire Risk Assessment.

4

Funding and Timing

4.1

Subject to the necessary approvals it is anticipated that tenders will be invited during March 2008, work will commence on site during June 2008 and be completed during October 2008.

4.2

The funding for the scheme is as follows:

£'000

Children's Services Capital Programme

NDS Suitability funding 2007/08 139

P&R Capital Programme 2007/08 (NDS Condition) 195

School - devolved capital 60

Children's Services Capital Programme 2007/08

Fire Precautions Block Vote 7

401

5

Consultation with Local Member

5.1

Councillor John Maxwell, the Local Member has been consulted on the proposed refurbishment scheme and has confirmed that he is supportive of the scheme.

Conclusion

The proposed refurbishment and fire safety works will improve safety and curriculum delivery.

LINK(S) TO CORPORATE STRATEGY

Yes

No

Hampshire safer and more secure for all

_

Maximising well-being

_

Enhancing our quality of place

_

This proposal does not link to the Corporate Strategy but, nevertheless, requires a decision because: