“The contractor and appraisal appointment for the purpose of constructing the new school was due to take place at about the time of Ms Crowhurst’s third witness statement, 25 April 2022. However, following elections in early May 2022, the political composition of elected members of the council changed from a Labour majority administration to one of no overall control. A new administration was formed on 7 June 2022. 84. Under relevant contract procedure rules (the value of the proposed contract exceeding £250,000) the relevant cabinet member of the new administration had to be consulted and approve the proposal before any contract for construction of the new school could be signed. So far, only the first stage of the two-stage contract has been authorised. That was on 24 June 2022”
High Court 24/10/2022