Many constituents have contacted my office concerned about recent reports regarding the presence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in schools and hospitals. Their concern, which I wholeheartedly share, stems from the potential safety risks posed by this material.
In correspondence with the Education Secretary, I've been informed that, as of now, there have been no confirmed cases of RAAC within our constituency, Solihull. However, three educational institutions have indicated the possible presence of RAAC and are currently awaiting a survey.
The Department for Education have said that surveys will now be completed in a 'matter of weeks' on these schools to confirm the presence of RAAC.
This is not remotely satisfactory. Our students, staff, and community members cannot wait indefinitely. Immediate action is imperative, and I am in regular contact with the Department for Education to ensure surveys and subsequent actions are expedited.
The concerns are vast, and I have submitted the following queries to the Education Secretary, hoping for a prompt and comprehensive response:
- How many more schools are suspected to have RAAC in their construction and have not yet been surveyed?
- What is the estimated completion date for the removal of RAAC from schools in England?
- What financial support is being offered to schools affected by the use of RAAC in their construction?
- Are there financial provisions set aside to aid schools in procuring temporary accommodations due to RAAC-related closures?
- How are schools being advised to prepare contingency plans in the event that RAAC is discovered in their buildings?
- How are schools being prioritized for RAAC inspections and repairs, and are more vulnerable institutions being addressed first?
- What steps are being taken to ensure the long-term stability and safety of schools post-RAAC repairs or reconstruction?
- Are there additional resources or personnel being allocated to speed up the RAAC inspection process?
- What safety standards are being put in place for schools undergoing RAAC repairs to ensure safety during the process?
- Are there collaborations with other departments or sectors to draw expertise on RAAC-related challenges?
- Is there a centralized database where schools can report and monitor RAAC-related issues?
- How are affected schools being assisted in terms of providing alternative learning spaces like Portakabins or online platforms?
- What long-term strategies are being developed to prevent future infrastructure issues like the RAAC situation?
- How is the department working with local authorities to accelerate RAAC-related repairs and renovations?
- Are there plans to revisit schools previously inspected to ensure no deterioration in RAAC conditions?
Beyond our educational institutions, another vital area where the potential dangers of RAAC present a significant concern is our healthcare infrastructure. The recent revelations about RAAC's prevalence have raised alarm bells about the safety of patients, staff, and visitors in Hospitals.
Today, I've written to the Health Secretary seeking more information. My correspondence seeks in-depth clarity on the status of Solihull Hospital and on the wider landscape across the West Midlands. The community deserves to be informed about the condition of NHS facilities and the measures in place to address any RAAC-related challenges.
Specifically, I have asked the Health Secretary:
- How many NHS hospitals have been identified as being built using RAAC, and what precautions are in place?
- What is the timeline and budget for the rebuilding of the seven hospitals found to have RAAC “present throughout”?
- Why has the Department no further plans to review hospital buildings for RAAC?
- What specific guidance is provided to hospitals for monitoring and mitigating the risks of RAAC?
- What financial provisions have been allocated for RAAC-related repairs and reconstruction in NHS hospitals?
- What is the estimated completion date for the removal of RAAC from the NHS estate?
- How are patients and staff in hospitals being informed regarding the presence of RAAC?
- What are the criteria used to prioritize hospitals for RAAC-related reconstruction?
RAAC is undeniably a pressing concern for many across our Borough, and I assure you that I will relentlessly push in Parliament for its prompt addressing by the Government. The safety of our constituents, particularly our children and patients, is of paramount importance and I remain committed to ensuring that our local schools, hospitals, and other vital public buildings are safe for all.
