Deputy council leader Gillian Ford emphasized the urgency of the new special needs school's development, noting the significant rise in demand for SEND services, which impacts children's education negatively. She stated, 'We've all seen the increase in demand and increase in costs, and the social impact it has on the children. They're not in their borough and they're not in their groups.'
Ray Morgon, the leader of the council, addressed the financial implications of SEND transport, asserting that by providing more in-borough options, the council aims to reduce these rising costs significantly. He remarked, 'Like many councils across the country, SEND transport is taking an increasing amount of council resources. More in-borough provision will cut those costs.'
Conservative group leader Keith Prince criticized the council's budgeting approach, warning against 'guesstimating' costs amid rising material and labor prices. He expressed concerns about the viability of the projected budget in the face of current economic realities.
Andrew Blake-Herbert, the chief executive, reassured that the council will adhere to fixed prices from the Department for Education, ensuring that the project remains within budget despite external criticisms regarding rising costs.
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