Dartford Borough Council has approved an investment of £4.5 million from its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund to support the expansion of Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy in response to rising pupil demand and population growth in the borough.
The funding will help to deliver a new standalone sixth form block and additional teaching accommodation, enabling the Academy to grow from eight forms of entry per year to ten, and allowing around 300 extra pupils to access education locally. Preparation for the project is well underway, and works are anticipated to be completed by Easter 2027.
The total project cost is estimated at £10.7 million. Kent County Council – the Academy’s governing body – has secured approximately £6.2 million and agreed to cover any increase in costs, making the CIL contribution 42% of the total budget.
This expansion is flagged as a priority in Dartford’s Infrastructure Delivery Plan and meets the eligibility and prioritisation criteria for strategic infrastructure funding. With sufficient resources in the strategic CIL pot (over £12 million available for allocation after commitments), there are a number of other projects in the pipeline. Past allocations include £7 million to Darent Valley Hospital’s proposed new Intensive Care Unit.
Leader of the Council Jeremy Kite said, “Our Corporate Plan specifically highlights our commitment to investing in young people’s skills and opportunities, strengthening education infrastructure, and supporting our thriving communities, which is why projects like this, and the work we’re doing with the health service, are so important to the Council. I am proud that we can help in ensuring more of our local children have access to a fantastic education.”