Unsafe school expected to close

The structural problems at the school were found during refurbishment work

A Nottinghamshire school is likely to close for good over fears that some of its buildings are unsafe.

Part of Bramcote Hills was temporarily shut in August after problems with structural concrete were found during repair work.

But further investigation has found widespread problems and now it is likely the school will be wound down.

The county council said it was now consulting on revamping the site and expanding nearby schools.

The problem was caused by high alumina cement, which was used in the construction of buildings in the county between the 1950s and 1970s.

New courses

Seen as a cheaper and more convenient building material, it was later discovered to degrade when exposed to rain water.

John Slater, the county council's Service Director for Learning and Achievement, said the plan now was to gradually close the school and look at converting it into a college.

"We are planning to still use the site and part of the buildings which will be an opportunity for young people to do some of the new courses for the diploma.

"And also for some of the young people currently there now to finish off their GCSE and A-level work, so the young people there now will actually finish those courses off."