Dodgy Concrete Crisis Hits More Buildings Across Britain
Last night, the crisis surrounding questionable concrete in Britain expanded beyond schools, raising concerns about other buildings at risk of collapse. Parents anxiously await news about their children’s return to school as the new term begins.
Thousands of students could face remote learning due to 156 schools being identified with dangerous levels of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac). The schools minister, Nick Gibb, has warned that the number of affected schools might increase as surveys continue.
The government is withholding the list of schools affected by the Raac issue, a lightweight concrete used in the past. The list will only be revealed once plans for rebuilding have been established. The Treasury will cover the costs of repairs.
Raac, commonly found in roofs, has a lifespan of about 30 years and can collapse if exposed to moisture, like roof leaks.
Worries now extend to other public buildings, including job centers, prisons, and hospitals. Experts fear the potential for “sudden and catastrophic” consequences.
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan assures MPs that schools suspected of having Raac will be surveyed within weeks to address the problem. Government sources expect around 20 to 30 schools might need to fully close.
Hospitals are undergoing refurbishments to remove Raac by 2035, and prisons containing the material are under investigation. The scope of the issue is much broader than just schools and covers various sectors like health, defense, justice, local and national government, and the private sector.
Labour is calling for a comprehensive government-wide investigation to assess the extent of the problem. The government has taken steps to address the issue and has evolved its professional advice on Raac’s safety over time.
A special needs school, Kingsdown School in Southend, Essex, has also been affected by the concrete crisis. Headteacher Louise Robinson had to inform parents about the sudden closure just before the term began. The closure impacts special equipment necessary for students with severe learning difficulties and physical disabilities. The school is seeking a solution to partially reopen while ensuring safety for students and staff.