A council’s headquarters have partially reopened after potentially dangerous concrete was found in its roof.

Gun Wharf in Chatham was closed completely earlier this week following confirmations reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) had been discovered.

As such, structural tests were carried out by specialist contractors to fully assess the extent of any damage.

RAAC is a form of lightweight concrete used in construction in many buildings between the 1950s and 1990s.

It has now been found to be structurally unsound.

A number of schools, hospitals, theatres and offices have had to close due to safety concerns regarding the material.

The council has now reopened parts of the building for its staff.

Leader of Medway Council, Cllr Vince Maple, said: “The safety of our staff and visitors has been our top priority since RAAC was found at Gun Wharf.

“All council services have continued to run as normal with residents not impacted by the closure of our offices.

“I am grateful to council staff for quickly adapting so well to the change and again, like throughout the pandemic, showing their resilience.

“I am also thankful to other partner organisations and stakeholders which have offered support and space for our staff, yet again showing the One Medway spirit.”

The councillor also hopes to have another update by next week and says they will keep residents informed.

Speaking to our sister site KMTV, he said he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the cost of repairs are higher due to it being a listed building.

“We will find out the costs when the surveys are completed and then look at all options available to address the RAAC going forward,” he added.