Decision details

The provision that runs in Keynsham cannot find a building to suit its purpose i.e. fully accessible with indoor outdoor flow. After investigating a number of sites, Wellsway School identified the Lansdown building as the best building for our needs

(1) To NOTE the capital expenditure request;

(2) To APPROVE the request to move to the procurement stage of the commissioning process; and

(3) To RECEIVE further report on the development of the site which will enable families living in the Keynsham area to access a fully accessible targeted holiday provision for their children after school and in the school holidays.

The decision will enable a provider of a targeted holiday provision for Disabled Children to deliver a play scheme in a safe and comfortable space with an outside space suitable for play allowing good indoor outdoor flow and meet the needs of all service users.  The short break services for disabled children are due to be re-commissioned for April 2013 and holiday play schemes will be part of the commission intentions. This will require the Council to have an accessible venue in Keynsham for at least another 3-5 years. By investing in Wellsway School the Council can guarantee this as a venue for use to potential providers which will allow the play scheme to run with less delay.

A number of venues in Keynsham were consulted, including the Fry’s site, the regeneration of Keynsham team, Broadlands School, the Scouts hut, the Guides hut and Queens Road Methodist Church (where the provision runs from now).  Wellsway School was the only venue to agree to work together to provide an appropriate space in Keynsham at the times the space is required i.e. during all major holidays.