Reform Council leaders are preparing to rescind a previously agreed £1 million payment associated with the development of a free school at Reedswood Park. In February 2026, the then Conservative cabinet authorised this expenditure to cover ‘abnormal costs’ linked to the construction of a 1,000-place free school.
Alongside the financial approval, the Conservative administration also agreed to grant a 125-year lease of woodland for the new £50 million facility, which is funded by the Department for Education (DfE). However, the project remains subject to obtaining planning permission.
The original agreement stipulated that if the DfE failed to secure the necessary planning consent, the lease would not proceed and the payment would be withheld.
READ MORE: Top Five Most Popular Destinations from Birmingham Airport in September
READ MORE: Nationwide reduces fixed mortgage rates, offering benefits to buyers and movers
At the time, Conservative leaders emphasised that the £1 million outlay would attract a £50 million investment in education within Walsall.
Despite these assurances, the school project has faced significant criticism due to its environmental impact, specifically the loss of 13.7 acres of woodland that serve as a habitat for birds, bats, reptiles, and mammals. Concerns have also been raised about the proposed vehicular access along the congested Reedswood Lane.
Notably, Councillor Adrian Andrew, a Conservative leader who has generally supported the scheme, expressed strong opposition to the current access plans, stating he “would oppose it tooth and nail” if changes were not made.
In light of ongoing objections, Reform cabinet members are scheduled to formally withdraw the £1 million funding commitment and the 125-year lease at their meeting on 26 August. The council report indicates that the DfE has consented to the withdrawal of both the funds and lease agreement.
This development is viewed as a significant victory by campaigners striving to protect the woodland.
During a recent council meeting, Reform councillors-who had previously voiced reservations about the project-were challenged by campaigners regarding their commitment to opposing the scheme after accusations of “chickening out” at the last full council meeting. However, as campaigners observed from the public gallery, half of the cabinet members exited the room.
This action followed guidance from the council’s monitoring officer, who advised that members with ‘relevant interests’ must maintain an open mind due to the pending planning application.
The outcome of this decision will be pivotal for the future of the Reedswood Park free school and the surrounding environment.