Latest statements from UEA
Q. What is RAAC?
A: Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) is a type of lightweight “bubbly” concrete made of cement, lime, water and an aeration agent, which was used in buildings constructed between the 1950s and 1990s. The aeration technique reduces the weight of the concrete, making it a popular choice for building materials such as lightweight roof planks. In the UK, the manufacture and use of RAAC ceased during the 1990s.
Q. Is there RAAC in buildings on campus and what is being done about it?
A: Many University buildings were constructed between the 1950s and the 1990s, which was a time when RAAC was commonly used. The Ziggurats, Nelson Court and Constable Terrace have RAAC panels in some areas of their roofs. In line with Government guidance, spaces that are known to have RAAC have been vacated and will remain closed to allow further investigations and remedial works to be carried out.
A desktop survey of University buildings is now complete and it has not identified other areas which are likely to have RAAC. Further assessments and surveys are being carried out to ensure that buildings remain safe for students, staff and visitors.
Q. Why is RAAC considered a safety risk?
A: It is now known that the structural integrity of RAAC concrete can be compromised over time, particularly if the material becomes saturated with water or is exposed to adverse or changing structural loads. It is now known that the material can suffer from sudden deterioration that may not be detectable by a visual inspection alone, which has prompted the UK Government to update advice on the management of RAAC in buildings.
Q. Why are we only now finding out about RAAC in UEA buildings?
A. The UK Government issued new advice on the 31 August advising that spaces with RAAC should be vacated whilst mitigations are put into place to assess the material and protect it from damage. In line with this guidance, the University has vacated the spaces where RAAC has been identified and is arranging for further investigations to be carried out by structural engineers.
We have communicated directly with the students who are directly affected and we are working hard to minimise the impact on your student experience. Please be aware that support is available to you via The Student Information Zone. You can visit them in person on The Street: What3Words location ///cafe.haven.desks, call 01603 597580, email student.information.zone@uea.ac.uk or chat to the team directly via Live Chat.
Q. What is being done about RAAC in University Buildings?
A: There are RAAC panels within the roofs of Norfolk and Suffolk Terrace (the Ziggurats), Nelson Court, and Constable Terrace. Around 750 student rooms will be closed. Most are currently vacant, and work is under way to allocate alternative on campus or city centre accommodation.
Affected spaces in these buildings have been closed and students have been relocated to alternative accommodation.
There is no RAAC in other accommodation buildings so students moving into other University accommodation are unaffected at this time.
A desktop survey of University buildings is now complete and it has not identified other areas which are likely to have RAAC. Further assessments and surveys are being carried out to ensure that buildings remain safe for students, staff and visitors.
Q. Is there RAAC in student residences and what does this mean?
A: There are RAAC panels within the roofs of Norfolk and Suffolk Terrace (the Ziggurats), Nelson Court, and Constable Terrace.
Affected spaces in these buildings have been closed and students have been relocated to alternative accommodation.
There is no RAAC in other accommodation buildings so students moving into other University accommodation are unaffected at this time.
A desktop survey of University buildings is now complete and it has not identified other areas which are likely to have RAAC. Further assessments and surveys are being carried out to ensure that buildings remain safe for students, staff and visitors.
Q. How can I get support?
A: We recognise during this period of change and upheaval you may need support. Please be aware that support is available to you via The Student Information Zone. You can visit them in person on The Street: What3Words location ///cafe.haven.desks, call 01603 597580, email student.information.zone@uea.ac.uk or chat to the team directly via Live Chat.
Q: I am a registered disabled student and had been allocated accommodation in a building where RAAC has been found. Will a suitable room be found for me elsewhere on campus?
A: We have taken the information provided by students about their individual needs and requirements into account when planning the reallocation of rooms. We will make every effort to ensure that an appropriate room is reallocated and are being guided by staff from our Student Support Service.
Students who have not previously notified the university of any mobility restrictions are encouraged to do so.
Q: How long are repair works likely to take, and will I be in alternative accommodation for the whole academic year?
A: All affected buildings are closed until further notice. We will provide updates on timescales as soon as we are able.
Q: How do I know if I'm being allocated alternative accommodation?
A: All affected students have now received emails from UEA Accommodation Office. If you have not received an email from the Accommodation Office by Monday 11 September, you will not be affected, and there will be no change to your accommodation when you arrive with us.
Q: Will I be financially impacted if I have had to move to alternative accommodation?
There will be no financial impact on any student as a result of any change to their planned accommodation, with all reallocated room facilities being either equivalent to or an upgrade on initial accommodation. All students relocated off campus at St Crispin’s Gate have received the offer of a free bus pass or a voucher to purchase a bicycle.
This page will continue to be updated with all the latest information.