RAAC removals in schools and hospitals “progressing”

More than half of the schools and colleges affected by reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) are now either fully clear of the material or on the path to removal, according to the Department for Education.

Government figures published on 10 September show that 52 schools have had RAAC removed entirely, while a further 71 are in the process of being rebuilt under the School Rebuilding Programme. Around 30,000 pupils are now learning in RAAC-free classrooms.

The issue extends beyond education. Seven hospitals have now eradicated RAAC completely, with a further 12 set to follow by March 2026. This is backed by £440 million investment this year, alongside a wider £38 billion education capital programme over five years and £20 billion earmarked for school rebuilds.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “High-quality classrooms show every child that their education matters – and that their future matters to this government. We are repairing the fabric of our schools and restoring the pride pupils feel in their classrooms.”

Relevance to the concrete sector

The RAAC crisis has created a significant pipeline of work for the UK’s concrete supply chain. With hundreds of schools, hospitals and public buildings requiring remediation or full rebuilds, there will be growing demand for:

• Ready-mix concrete for replacement structures.
• Precast elements for rapid rebuild programmes.
• Concrete repair and strengthening specialists to manage interim works.
• Skilled labour to deliver projects under tight safety and programme pressures.

The government describes the current work as “the largest school improvement programme in a generation.” For concrete producers, contractors, and repair firms, the removal of RAAC represents not only a national safety imperative but also a long-term opportunity across both public and private frameworks.