‘This will be extremely welcome news’ - Devon MP shares key update on Tavistock College rebuild

Tavistock College is expected to receive funding for a long-awaited rebuild by early 2026, according to local MP Sir Geoffrey Cox.

The Torridge and Tavistock MP said he had been seeking clarity from the new Labour Government about whether the school would still benefit from the Schools Rebuilding Programme (SRP), which was originally launched under the Conservatives.

He said he was recently assured by the Minister of State for Early Years that the college will receive its funding allocation, with planning and feasibility work due to begin in early 2026.

“Having raised with the Secretary of State the urgent need for new school buildings for Tavistock College on numerous occasions since the election, I was pleased last week to receive communication from the Minister of State for Early Years confirming that Tavistock will shortly receive its long-awaited allocation,” Sir Geoffrey said.

He added that he had been told the Department for Education will liaise with Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust (DMAT) and the college at least one month before the project begins.

There is also a possibility the timeline could be brought forward if conditions allow, with the aim of completing all SRP projects by 2030.

“This will be extremely welcome news for students, parents, and the dedicated staff and teachers at Tavistock College,” Sir Geoffrey said.

“In recent months, rural communities have too often been overlooked by the government. On this occasion, I am pleased that common sense has prevailed. I will continue to monitor developments closely and will not hesitate to press the Government to honour this essential commitment.”