A dispute over repairs has escalated in schools across Stoke-on-Trent, as they are bound by a multi-million-pound Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract. The schools have expressed concerns that the private firm responsible for maintenance may not complete all necessary repairs before the contract expires in October. BBC News has conducted a thorough investigation into the matter, involving visits to multiple schools, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and document analysis.
Exclusive findings reveal that 42 out of the 88 schools involved have decided to withhold payments from the contract. This decision comes after 35 schools received legal threats from Stoke-on-Trent City Council in January. Concerns were also raised that there may not be sufficient funds available to complete all required repairs before the contract’s end. Additionally, none of the schools have received any compensation for reported failures during the 25-year contract period.
The agreement was originally signed in 2000 between Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Transform Schools (Stoke) Limited (TSSL). The contract, managed by multinational company Equans, stands as the largest of its kind in England and is among the first PFI deals in the country set to expire, which could have implications for similar contracts across schools and hospitals in England. Stoke City Council has emphasized the importance of ensuring the schools are safe, warm, and dry in the midst of this situation.
At schools like Our Lady and St Benedict primary, issues of neglect are evident as concerns about heating problems, water pumps, and other maintenance issues persist. Head teacher Sarah Clowes has highlighted the challenges faced in addressing these issues, including significant delays in repairs and unexpected breakdown of essential facilities. BBC News’ involvement has prompted some repairs to commence, yet there are ongoing concerns regarding the overall condition of the schools as the contract nears its end.
As the PFI contract approaches its expiration, schools managed by Ian Beardmore estimate a daunting £1.8 million in repair work. Beardmore has expressed frustration over the exorbitant charges endured by his schools over the years, making it challenging to address all outstanding repair needs within the allocated timeframe. Stoke-on-Trent City Council has indicated concerns over the funding availability for completion of handback works and has communicated plans to reprioritize repairs to ensure all schools meet safety standards by the contract end
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