Schools concrete crisis: Houses of Parliament tested for Raac as Scotland releases full school list

Expert explains why Raac is more dangerous than standard concrete

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Parliament is undergoing testing for Raac as the government becomes further embroiled in a crisis over the crumbling concrete, Bloomberg reports.

A source confirmed that tests were ongoing, but authorities were unable to say whether Raac has been detected.

Constructed in the 19th century, the buildings have been impacted by crumbling masonry, asbestos, leaks, vermin infestations and decades-old electrical wiring, with a body commissioned to produce estimates for a full-scale restoration previously finding that it would cost £22 billion and potentially take 76 years to carry out the work.

Meanwhile, at least 37 schools in Scotland have been found to contain Raac, Scottish education secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has said.

City of Edinburgh Council currently has the highest number of schools with Raac and said eight across the local authority included the material, with five councils yet to respond to requests for figures including Glasgow City Council.

A spokesperson said to provide 100% certainty, however, further surveys would be carried out over the coming months at schools and other buildings constructed within the stated timescale of use.

Are you a parent whose child has been affected by RAAC closures? E-mail alexander.butler@independent.co.uk

Show latest update 1693732607Ministers need to ‘come clean’ about scale of RAAC issue – Labour

Labour shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson said the government needs to “come clean” about the problem of RAAC in schools

Speaking to Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky News, she said: “Ministers need to come clean, be upfront and be honest with parents about what we’re facing right now.”

She added: “I think we need to be upfront, have that full list, and be absolutely clear about what’s going on and if we need further surveys to take place in order to determine the full scale of what’s happened then so be it.”

(PA)

Matt Mathers3 September 2023 10:16