The company behind the largest schools Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract in England is going into liquidation, heightening concerns that 88 schools in Stoke-on-Trent could be left with unfinished building work and repairs.
Schools in the city have paid Transform Stoke Schools Ltd (TSSL) to keep their buildings in good condition over the course of a 25-year contract that expired on 25 October.
In a letter seen by the BBC, the chief executive of Stoke-on-Trent City Council told schools TSSL was going into Creditor Voluntary Liquidation – meaning its directors are taking steps to close it down.
The council told the BBC its priority was ensuring children have safe, high-quality buildings.
The council made clear as the contract drew to…