THE kitchen at Gonerby Hill Foot Primary School remains unused - over a year after the £330,000 project was completed.
In November last year the Journal reported that a tax problem between the food supplier, Lincolnshire County Council and the tax department had delayed the use of the new facility.
The problem was due to be resolved by January but a solution was not found. Then, this week, it was discovered that the same supplier, at late notice, had pulled out of providing school meals in the kitchens during this academic year.
Director of children’s services Debbie Barnes said: “Unfortunately, Farm Kitchen have reluctantly decided to withdraw from the kitchen tenders to supply school meals from the kitchen facilities at Gonerby Hill Foot School.
“This is due to a number of reasons including continued delays over planning, land leases and contract issues.”
Last year the tax issue arose after it was discovered that Farm Kitchen was receiving payment directly from the parents, making them the agent and therefore, according to the taxman, liable for VAT.
Ms Barnes added: “The Farm Kitchen are incredibly disappointed to have had to make the decision as they no longer feel this kitchen provides a sustainable business model.
“However, we are pleased to announce that Food 4 Thought have stepped in to plug the gap and will be providing school meals from the kitchen from January 1.
“We look forward to seeing school meals being provided from Gonerby Hill Foot for the benefit of the children and young people.”
* Are your children affected by the kitchen remaining unused? How do you feel about this situation? And why the wait until January? Let us know your views, e-mail: comment@granthamjournal.co.uk
Comments