Inspection in Sheffield school reveals a classroom roof at risk of ‘complete failure’

The Sheffield Council had reported the findings of a primary school classroom roof that is at risk of ‘complete failure’ following a structural inspection.

The council officers stated that £504,800 would be needed to replace the roofing in a 1960s extension block of Abbey Lane Primary School.

In a report prepared for a finance sub-committee meeting next week they said: “A structural inspection of the ceiling slabs at Abbey Lane Primary School confirmed the use of Reinforced Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (RAAC) roof planks in some roofs of the 1960s extension block, covering a classroom and the kitchen.

“The standing committee on structural safety issued an alert in May 2019 regarding the risks associated with this type of construction, including complete roof failure.

“The RAAC planks installed at Abbey Lane have now exceeded their estimated 30-year lifespan and investigative surveys have been carried out to determine the most appropriate action to take.”

The council plan to replace the roof as soon as possible but reported that the funding would need to come from the Department for Education building condition allocation.

The roof coverings will be stripped and the planks demolished before they re-roof the building using materials that will also help with keeping heat in.

Council officers added: “Removal and replacement of the RAAC plank system would eliminate all consequential risks of collapse.”

Construction is expected to be completed by August 2023.

Councillors are set to approve this at a meeting on Monday, November 7 from 2pm.

To read the full agenda for the finance sub-committee meeting and  to watch the live webcast, visit their website