Before the academy can open, the academy trust needs to agree the legal arrangements between itself and the local authority or other owner (such as a Diocese) of the land and buildings to be used by the academy. This is done by both parties agreeing a long-term lease which sets out the terms and conditions associated with the occupation, use, repair and maintenance of the buildings and land in question. If this is not possible or the LA is not the owner of the land and buildings please contact your named contact in the Department (project lead).