The Department for Education (DfE) has publicly responded to criticism surrounding a major new free school project in Walsall, following accusations from the local MP that the process 'smacks of the covid VIP lane'. The department had previously declined to comment when questioned.
MP's 'VIP Lane' Allegations and Site Concerns
Walsall and Bloxwich MP Valerie Vaz raised serious concerns about the scheme in Parliament last month. She questioned the transparency of the Walsall Education Investment Area board, established in 2022, and highlighted a potential conflict of interest.
"What is even worse is that a member of the trust tasked with delivering the school was a member of the now-disbanded board," Ms Vaz stated. "I am sure you will agree... that this smacks of the covid VIP lane."
She also argued there is 'no case' for the new £50m school based on local pupil numbers, asserting that other schools in the area are 'crying out for funding'. Ms Vaz challenged why local headteachers, governors, and her own position as the elected representative were being ignored.
Department for Education's Firm Rebuttal
In a detailed response, the DfE has now robustly defended the project. A spokesperson stated that the school, originally approved as Blakenall Free School in April 2017, was established through a 'rigorous and well-established free school application process' designed to prevent preferential treatment.
The department explicitly denied any improper influence from the local board. "The board has no involvement with free school assessment or delivery," the spokesperson said, noting that the free school was approved five years before the board was formed in September 2022.
On the issue of need and cost, the DfE emphasised that it prioritises securing value for money and places schools within identified areas of need. A detailed capital budget assessment is conducted before any construction contracts are signed.
Trust Insists on Full Compliance
The Windsor Academy Trust, chosen to deliver the secondary school, has also responded. A trust spokesperson said: "The application process for a proposed new secondary school in Walsall has been conducted in strict compliance with all Department for Education guidance, a commitment we have maintained since the initial stages in 2017."
The proposed school at Reedswood Park represents a £50m investment and is expected to create over a thousand secondary and sixth form places. Despite the ongoing political dispute, the project continues to move forward through the official channels.
