Emergency Repairs for Crumbling School in Tenby Deemed Imperative
In a bid to address the deteriorating concrete frame of Greenhill School in Tenby, Pembrokeshire Council has taken swift action by approving over £500,000 for emergency repairs. The decision, made under the delegated powers of Council leader Jon Harvey, comes as a response to a concerning report highlighting the “significant risk” posed by the fragile structure.
The critical repair bill of £555,946 aims to rectify the “external wall concrete frame failure” at the school, with a primary focus on ensuring the safety of both students and staff members. A comprehensive survey conducted on the premises revealed alarming instances of concrete degradation across 750 areas, including cracks in brickwork and concrete. The urgency of the situation was underscored by observations of sizeable debris falling from the structure, endangering passersby and risking damage to nearby vehicles and infrastructure.
According to a council report, decisions of this nature can be greenlit under delegated powers if they are deemed urgent. A specialist structural assessment emphasised the essential nature of immediate repair works and stabilisation to the identified areas within the school’s concrete frame. The report highlighted various columns that had already lost structural mass, casting doubts on their integrity and necessitating prompt intervention.
In response to the survey’s findings, areas identified as at “imminent potential of falling” were promptly addressed, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The need for urgent categorisation of repair works was reiterated, stressing the critical importance of restoring safety and functionality to the school premises. To mitigate disruptions during term-time, the majority of repair activities will be scheduled for school holidays.
The article published by the Pembrokeshire Council outlined the risks associated with failing to address the structural concerns, emphasising immediate threats to health and safety due to potential material dislodgement. Moreover, the medium- and long-term implications included the risk of larger structural sections failing, as well as potential water penetration leading to dampness and mould.
Furthermore, the report highlighted the impact of inadequate school infrastructure on the learning experience and teacher retention rates. It cited the potential to enhance the school’s reputation through refurbishment and repair works, addressing concerns related to safety and overall school esteem. The funding for the repairs will initially be drawn from the building maintenance reserve for the schools’ capital programme, with a view to potentially replacing it with the Welsh Government Education Backlog Maintenance Grant for 2025-26 if available.
In conclusion, the urgent repairs to Greenhill School underscore the commitment to ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for both students and staff members. The proactive response from Pembrokeshire Council reflects a prioritisation of health and safety within educational settings, setting a precedent for addressing structural concerns in schools across the region.