Specialist assessments carried out after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) found at Gun Wharf in Chatham
Last Friday (27 October), it was confirmed that reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) had been found in some areas of the roof at Gun Wharf.
Our offices were temporarily closed from Monday, 30 October to Friday, 3 November for the safety of our staff, tenants and visitors, and whilst structural tests were carried out to fully assess the extent of any damage.
A comprehensive assessment has now been carried out by specialist contractors and consequently, we have reopened areas of Gun Wharf for our staff.
All council services have continued to run as normal throughout the week. Since the pandemic, plans are in place to enable our staff to work off-site and continue providing a high level of support to residents.
Medway residents can continue to contact us in the usual way; the website Medway.gov.uk has lots of advice and information about support available and residents can complete online forms to request specific support. A temporary reception area is in place at Gun Wharf for members of the public who have arranged an appointment.
Council and committee meetings will be held in other venues in the meantime. Details of all meetings the public are able to attend will be updated on our website: Medway.gov.uk/CouncilMeetings
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.
“Whilst some areas of Gun Wharf have now reopened, we are continuing to work with the specialist contractors and, when we have further details, we will consider the options available to address the RAAC going forward.”