Update on old Culverhay Site at Rush Hill

As Liberal Democrat's we have fought consistently to ensure that Education remains a key priority on the old Culverhay Rush Hill site.

We previously told you that there was approval for a new 120 place free school and an alternative provision school for the site which means the total area has to be demolished and levelled. 

The new labour government has put that decision on hold whilst they look at their national priorities, but our officer's view is that this funding will be provided. As a direct result this will put back the commitment by at least twelve months.

Our business case for the new schools is absolutely realistic so we hope the government will agree to it when they carry out their comprehensive spending review in the spring.

Our Liberal Democrat Council is so committed we are going to carry out our own feasibility study to reduce the timescale risks and carry on with the site clearance and levelling. Levelling the site as soon as possible will save the authority significant amounts of money in holding costs. 

The existing Alternative Provision school on site will be relocated to Abbot Alphage school in Ensleigh. This will help some of the most vulnerable children receive local education and support in a modern, purpose built school. 
 
This is a commitment we are making in the order of £4M because the DFE do not pay for the demolition and preparation of this site and if we wait for a decision we will incur significant extra costs. We are therefore proceeding at some risk because we want to deliver our commitment of maintaining this site for education.

We know and value local history and commitment to the site and will organise an open day for any one to look around before any demolition starts. 

If you are interested in having a final look around the site, please do get in touch so that we can ensure you are notified of any dates when they are arranged.