Doncaster Justice Centre North has faced the prospect of closure after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered within the building. The Doncaster Magistrates’ Court is just one of nine courthouses across England that have been found to contain RAAC.
According to the courthouse, hearings must be relocated to alternative sites while assessments are being carried out.
RAAC was extensively used in public buildings in England from the 1950s to the 1960s, many of which are now beginning to exhibit signs of wear and deterioration.
This type of concrete is primarily employed for flat roof structures, which are typically challenging to access, survey, maintain, and replace.
RAAC has a lifespan of 30 years. In addition to Doncaster Justice Centre North, the unsafe concrete was also detected in the following buildings:
- Blackpool County Court
- Blackpool Magistrates’ Court
- Crewe Magistrates’ and County Court
- Queen Elizabeth II Law Courts in Liverpool
- Inner London Crown Court.
