Condition Improvement Fund 2022-05-23
2022-05-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is inquiring about the allocation of funds from the condition improvement fund to schools, particularly focusing on specific needs in County Durham.
What recent steps his Department has taken to ensure that condition improvement fund allocations reflect the needs of schools and pupils. Leadgate Primary School and Consett Junior School in my constituency hit some of the core criteria outlined in the plan, but Villa Real special school does not meet traditional criteria despite serious structural issues and a need for expanded provision.
Applications to the condition improvement fund are assessed based on condition needs, project plan quality and value for money. Durham County Council received £6.6 million for 2022-23 to improve school buildings as a local authority-maintained school receives this allocation instead of applying directly.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific reassurance about Villa Real special school not provided, only general information on allocations
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about specific criteria for the condition improvement fund affecting Villa Real special school, despite its need for expansion and structural repairs.
Villa Real special school in my constituency does not meet normal criteria due to age but has serious structural issues and a significant need for expanded provision. Can the Minister assure me that this school will receive proper consideration?
Local authorities in County Durham received £6.6 million for 2022-23 to improve school buildings, and there is an investment of £1.4 billion from 2022-23 to 2023-24 specifically for high needs provision, with Durham receiving £11.2 million.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific reassurance about Villa Real special school not provided, only general information on allocations
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the deteriorating condition of school buildings across England, citing Government surveys indicating urgent repairs are needed at one in six schools.
Schools estate is crumbling after 12 years of Tory negligence. In 2019, a survey revealed one in six schools required urgent repairs and some sites present a risk to life. Millions of children are learning in unfit buildings. Can the Minister secure funding from the Chancellor? Is he confident every school building in England is safe?
We have invested more than £13 billion since 2015 to improve school buildings, including £1.8 billion this year. A new school rebuilding programme will transform 500 schools over a decade, prioritising severe need and safety issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific funding from Chancellor not addressed, only overall investment figures given
Response accuracy