Concrete Concerns: Lincolnshire Councils on RAAC Hunt
In a bid to ensure safety in housing infrastructure, councils in Lincolnshire have pledged to investigate their social housing stock for the presence of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete). This comes after warnings about the potential risks associated with this concrete type.
What is RAAC and Why are Councils Concerned?
Originally widespread in construction developments between the 1950s and 1990s, RAAC offered a more cost-effective alternative to standard concrete. Despite this, the Health and Safety Executive has flagged concerns about its estimated lifespan of only 30 years, and its potential to collapse 'with little or no notice'.
The Scope of the Investigation
Lincolnshire County Council has already confirmed the absence of RAAC in LA-maintained schools, and other local councils are initiating similar probes into their housing. A spokesperson from the City of Lincoln Council stated, "We are unaware of any buildings within our stock that are constructed using RAAC. However, we have begun a piece of work which will include an inspection of various property types to ensure this is the case."
South Kesteven District Council, North Kesteven District Council, and the council for South Holland have all echoed similar sentiments, each pledging to undertake thorough checks for the presence of RAAC in their housing.
"None of SKDC's housing stocks falls within the initial timeframe guidance issued regarding RAAC. Full checks will be completed by the housing team by the end of this week," vowed Cllr Phil Dilks from South Kesteven.
Meanwhile, social housing in boroughs such as Boston and the district of East Lindsey, not maintained by a local authority, will not be part of this current investigation.
The Next Steps
Should any signs of RAAC be discovered, councils have prepared mitigation strategies. These could involve visual structural surveys, potentially aided by a consultant, and said councils will work alongside affected tenants to rectify the issue through further building works, completing to the highest UK standards of safety and compliance.