URGENT checks should be carried out at seven schools and colleges in the Bridgwater area that could be affected by RAAC concrete, Bridgwater's MP has demanded.

Ian Liddell-Grainger is calling for the most rapid response possible to concerns the schools and colleges may be at risk from potential safety problems associated with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete.

He says comprehensive investigations must be started immediately to determine whether or not the buildings are safe to use.

Mr Liddell-Grinager said Bridgwater College Academy, Brymore Academy, Middlezoy, Pawlett and East Huntspill primary academies and Othery village school have all notified the DfE of the possible presence of RAAC in their buildings.

If this is confirmed and assessed to be at a critical level then the buildings will need to be taken out of use immediately.

Mr Liddell-Grainger said it is important for the surveys to be carried out quickly and thoroughly so as to end the uncertainty for staff, students and parents.

“Clearly we cannot take any chances and simply allow these buildings to remain in use for weeks while a potential risk remains,” he said.

“The nature of the failures involving RAAC is that the buildings are inherently unsafe and therefore it would be putting lives at risk merely to continue using them while hoping for the best.”

RAAC is a lightweight material was used mainly in flat roofing, but also in floors and walls, between the 1950s and 1990s.

It is cheaper than standard concrete, is quicker to produce and easier to install.

Mr Liddell-Grainger is also making contact this week with DfE officials over the separate, unrelated problems at Haygrove School, in Bridgwater, where the main building has been deemed unsafe after a Government inspection.

READ MORE: Safety fears over building at Haygrove School.

It was built only three years ago but now is set to remain out of use for months and may even have to be demolished.

Mr Liddell-Grainger said the situation was further complicated by the fact that the contractors had ceased trading and therefore could not be forced to remedy the faults.

“But this is going to cause very serious long-term disruption to the lives of hundreds of students and their families and I am urging education officials, despite the hundreds of other failing buildings that are coming to light, to support the school in applying a temporary fix while we decide whether or not the building has to come down,” he said.