Risk mitigation works are set to be carried out at Peterborough Town Hall following detailed investigations into Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) which was identified in the building.
Cabinet Members agreed to authorise a contract for the works during a meeting at Sand Martin House yesterday (Tuesday 15 July) and it is hoped this can start within the next six to eight weeks and be completed by the end of December.
Members heard that the mitigation measures are required to address the risks associated with a potential RAAC collapse in the building, although it was pointed out that such an event is unlikely.
The works follow a detailed structural risk assessment carried out in line with guidance issued by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and undertaken by qualified structural engineers. The measures will help the council mitigate risks effectively and proportionately, ensuring the continued safety of the public and the structural resilience of the building.
Councillor Mohammed Jamil, Deputy Leader of Peterborough City Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Governance, said: “Our utmost priority is ensuring the safety of everyone who either works in or visits the Town Hall. We are confident that the measures we are putting in place reflect best practice and are based on sound professional advice.
“The works have been planned to ensure minimum disruption while addressing the issues identified in the structural risk assessment. This is a precautionary and proportionate response that reflects our commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.
"At present we are reviewing two interim support measures, one which mitigates the risk if the RAAC was to collapse and one which supports with mitigating the likelihood of a RAAC collapse. It is absolutely imperative that we move swiftly to implement this following a decision on the most effective option.”
The council will continue to work closely with its engineering partners and provide updates to residents and stakeholders as the programme progresses.
You can find out more by reading the Cabinet report here.