As reported in tonight's "Evening Telegraph" I have sought clarity about the extent of funding and timescales with regard to improvements to Harris Academy's buildings.At the Education Committee last night, I greatly welcomed the commitment by Scottish Government to fund a substantial proportion of the works at Harris Academy, but we do need clarity in terms of the actual amount of funding coming from government and the timescale in which funding will come forward and work on the school can commence.
The Council's new Chief Executive, David Doward, indicated that Scottish Government would fund two-thirds of the work, but the query is – two thirds of what?
The Harris Academy Feasibility Study’s cost summary estimate was £17 million for total works but in addition to this “other desirable works” of £1.5 million were referred to on top of this. I am of the view that these “desirable” works are actually essential – upgrading the music block, improving the sports hall, gymnasium block and swimming pool and providing a community reception area.
I have therefore written this morning to Mr Dorward and to Jim Collins, Director of Education, seeking clarity over the total funding to be made available by Scottish Government, and arising out of that, the extent of the Council’s contribution required from a revised overall capital programme.
I have also asked of them :
The Council's new Chief Executive, David Doward, indicated that Scottish Government would fund two-thirds of the work, but the query is – two thirds of what?
The Harris Academy Feasibility Study’s cost summary estimate was £17 million for total works but in addition to this “other desirable works” of £1.5 million were referred to on top of this. I am of the view that these “desirable” works are actually essential – upgrading the music block, improving the sports hall, gymnasium block and swimming pool and providing a community reception area.
I have therefore written this morning to Mr Dorward and to Jim Collins, Director of Education, seeking clarity over the total funding to be made available by Scottish Government, and arising out of that, the extent of the Council’s contribution required from a revised overall capital programme.
I have also asked of them :
"... has Scottish Government clarified precisely when it will start releasing funds to allow the project to commence? I think it is very important that, having made the announcement yesterday, government is very clear about the total funding and timescale; and I would be grateful if you can advise me if you have had this clarification as yet?"