Primary school building 'not safe for students and staff'

A NORTHUMBERLAND primary school will not reopen after the Christmas holidays after structural engineers declared the building unsafe.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local democracy reporter [e-mail]

> Mowbray Primary School in Stakeford is closed due to structural problems

Cracks were discovered in Mowbray Primary School in Stakeford earlier this year.

A new report from a structural engineer has found that the cracking and wall movement in the school building is now "widespread and progressive" and has "accelerated over recent weeks and days".

Pupils will be taught in alternative sites for the foreseeable future.

The building dates back to the 1920s, with various additions built out over the decades.

Surveys in 2023 found that the school did not contain any RAAC after the material forced the closure of schools across the country.

Initially, the youngsters will be accommodated at other nearby schools before moving into Foundry House in Bedlington. The re-purposing of Foundry House is expected to take several weeks.

In a letter to parents, Mowbray headteacher Andrew Miller wrote: "As you are aware, cracking was discovered earlier in the year. The school has worked with our insurance company,

Northumberland County Council and structural engineers for a number of months to ensure the safety of everyone on the school site and the continuous education of the children attending the school.