Warning £50m academy rebuild project is 'at risk'

A £50M scheme to build new buildings for Berwick Academy is "at risk" according to a leading Conservative councillor.

- JAMES ROBINSON

Northumberland County Council's cabinet member for education Coun Guy Renner-Thompson warned the future of the project was uncertain, with the Government refusing to commit £13m in funding.

The council is lobbying for the cash from Westminster after a condition report showed a £13m maintenance backlog on the current school that the Department for Education is responsible for.

However, the local MP and a Government minister have claimed the council is yet to bring forward "detailed plans".

North Northumberland Labour MP David Smith has faced calls from councillors to pressure the Government into providing funding. However, he has claimed he is unable to do so without the council's business case, which is due for publication next month ahead of a final sign-off in September.

Mr Smith said: "I want to reassure Berwick parents that the Department for Education (DfE) is aware of the Berwick Academy situation and is waiting for Northumberland County Council (NCC) to submit a business case to them.