Schools: Buildings

(asked on 7th November 2023) - View Source

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how many schools will take part in the invasive structural assessment of system-built blocks approved in September 2022; and if she will make a statement.


Answered by
Damian Hinds Portrait
Damian Hinds
Minister of State (Education)
This question was answered on 22nd November 2023

The department is working with the sector to establish a research study of several system-built frame types to identify potential future issues.

The department is working with schools, responsible bodies, and potential contractors to enable these assessments to be carried out at 100 schools with a minimum of disruption and to provide research that will be widely applicable.

In establishing this research project the department considered the implications of disturbing hazardous materials, including asbestos. The department is taking time to ensure that safety measures are in place to continue to keep all students, staff, and the general public safe during these investigations, which has delayed the procurement timetable slightly.

The department expects that procurement will take place over the coming months and that the majority of the initial assessments will be undertaken over the easter and summer holiday periods of the 2023/24 academic year.

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