This report provides the Children, Young People and Education Committee with an overview of the feasibility study that has taken place in relation to Clare Mount Specialist Sports College relocating to the former Kingsway Academy, Wallasey.

 A report was brought to committee in November to explore whether this would be a viable option and if Clare Mount Specialist Sports College would like to explore this option.

The former Kingsway Academy is part of the Wirral Private Finance Initiative (PFI) schools’ contract that was signed in 2007. The PFI scheme allowed for the significant refurbishment and new build of nine schools across the local authority. This included eight secondary schools and one primary school.

The former Kingsway Academy school building has remained empty since the closure of the school. The site is being maintained by the current PFI contractor until a use for the building has been formalised.

Options in relation to the school building use had been explored at the end of 2019, of which one of these was the possibility of Clare Mount Specialist Sports College moving to the former Kingsway Academy building. Options outlined have not been developed further due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The proposed relocation of Clare Mount Specialist Sports College to the former Kingsway Academy site supports the Brighter Futures theme of the Wirral Plan 2021 - 26 and specifically the delivery of the school asset and sufficiency and SEND strategies.

This matter affects residents across the borough. This is a key decision.