Councillor Mary Maguire is concerned about the safety of schools in the area, particularly following the discovery of a cracked roof at Avenue Junior School. She is supported by fellow Green councillor Liam Calvert, who questions why one school finding a crack in their roof has led to concerns about many other schools in the area. Calvert is skeptical of the county council’s claims of regular inspections, suggesting that the last inspection may have been some time ago. He emphasizes the need for urgent action to address the safety concerns and reassure parents.
The county council has responded to the concerns by stating that they regularly inspect their buildings to check their condition. The specific issue with lath and plaster ceilings, with a suspended ceiling directly below, came to light after a ceiling collapsed at one of Synergy Trust’s schools. This particular area is challenging to inspect visually, leading to the discovery of potential safety risks. The council’s statement suggests that they are taking the issue seriously and are likely to be proactive in addressing any safety concerns that arise.
The safety of school buildings, especially in light of the recent incident, has become a top priority for Councillor Maguire and her colleagues. Concerns about the thoroughness and frequency of inspections have been raised, with a call for increased transparency and accountability from the county council. Parents are understandably anxious about the safety of their children in these schools, and Councillors Maguire and Calvert are pushing for swift action to address any potential risks.
Moving forward, it is essential for the county council to demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety of all schools in the area. Regular inspections and proactive measures to address any identified issues will be crucial in reassuring parents and restoring confidence in the education system. Councillors Maguire and Calvert are advocating for transparency, accountability, and timely action to ensure the well-being of students and staff in schools across the area. The recent incident has highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance of school buildings to prevent future safety concerns.
