Five schools get £2.5m for faulty concrete work

Ysgol David Hughes and Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi on Anglesey were closed over concerns about reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac). It was also found in Ysgol Maes Owen in Kinmel Bay, Ysgol Trefnant in Denbighshire and Eveswell Primary School in Newport.

The Welsh government funding is part of a £12.5m package for improving school and college buildings. It will be spent on maintenance such as replacing roofs, windows, heating and ventilation and electrical systems, and will provide an opportunity to adopt energy-saving measures.

The number of schools with Raac in Wales was significantly lower than in England (more than 230) and Scotland (39). According to Education Minister Jeremy Miles, that “is testament to Welsh government investment in schools over a number of years”. The new funding package, he said, “will enable local authorities and colleges to carry out maintenance work to ensure the Welsh education estate is safe and efficient”.

Anglesey council leader Llinos Medi said the months since last summer’s Raac survey have been challenging. “Extensive remedial works have already been carried out to ensure both schools were able to welcome all pupils back to their buildings for face-to-face learning,” she said.

“More remedial works are needed and it is important these are carried out as quickly as possible to ensure all areas within the school buildings are safe to use.

“Welsh government funding will allow us to complete these works and meet other associated Raac costs, without having to use our own scarce reserve funding.”