Edinburgh Council is planning on buying 17 homes and flats in the capital to deal with issues related to a dangerous type of concrete in ceiling panels. The council has confirmed that RAAC roof panels were used in five buildings where they own homes, posing a risk of collapse. RAAC, a building material popular in the UK up to the 1990s, can fail when exposed to water for extended periods, despite being known for its affordability, lightweight, and fire resistance. The problem extends to several council schools and the Blackhall Library, which had to close temporarily last year for fixes.
Who would’ve thought that buildings could be at risk of collapsing due to dodgy ceiling panels? Well, it turns out the council owns homes with RAAC roof panels that are causing some serious concerns. This reinforced autoclaved air-entrained concrete might have been all the rage back in the day for its cheap price and fireproof qualities, but now it’s causing a whole lot of trouble. From schools to libraries, the issue is spreading like wildfire, and the council is taking matters into their own hands by purchasing affected properties.
The affected buildings, including terraced houses and apartment blocks, will require residents to move out temporarily during the repairs. And if private owners refuse to sell or cooperate, the council might have to pull out the big guns and use emergency powers to sort things out. It’s a messy situation, but the council is determined to make things right before any real risks emerge. So, buckle up, folks, because it looks like we’re in for a bumpy ride while this whole mess gets sorted out.
