This page provides information about Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) and explains how it is being managed at Grangemouth Sports Complex. 
 
RAAC was confirmed at the Complex in February 2024 following a detailed condition survey. Independent structural engineers have inspected the affected area and continue to monitor it, confirming it remains stable with no signs of movement or major deterioration. The pool hall remains safe to use. 
 
The questions and answers below explain what RAAC is, where it has been identified at the Complex, and what this means for people using the facility. 

What is it?

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight construction material used in some public buildings between the 1950s and 1990s. It was used mostly in flat roofing but also in some pitched roofs, floors and walls.

It was quicker to produce, easier to install and cheaper than standard concrete. Despite its name, it is very different to traditional concrete although it looks similar. It is aerated, or "bubbly", and is therefore less durable than traditional concrete.

Why can RAAC be a concern?

RAAC can weaken over time, particularly if water penetrates the material itself, which is why regular inspection and maintenance is important.

Does the presence of RAAC mean a building is unsafe?

No. The presence of RAAC does not automatically make a building unsafe. Each building must be assessed on its own condition, the location of RAAC and engineering advice.

Is the pool safe to use?

Yes. Independent structural engineers have inspected the affected roof area and confirmed it is stable, with no signs of movement or major deterioration. Specialist engineers are satisfied that the pool hall is safe to use.

Where is RAAC at the Complex?

RAAC has been identified in the roof above the plant room and pool hall and is confined to this roof area.

When was RAAC confirmed, and has the situation changed since then?

RAAC was confirmed in February 2024 following a detailed condition survey. Independent structural engineers confirmed the affected area was stable and that the pool hall was safe to use. Since then, the condition of the roof area has continued to be monitored and has remained stable, with no signs of movement or major deterioration.

What has been done to manage the RAAC?

Additional roof supports have been installed and an enhanced inspection regime introduced. This includes:

• six-monthly inspections by specialist structural engineers
• weekly maintenance checks
• daily on-site checks by management

These measures are in place to ensure the condition of the roof continues to be monitored closely.

Why is this being discussed publicly now?

RAAC at the Complex has been managed through inspection and monitoring since it was identified, and the condition of the roof remains stable.

This is being discussed publicly now because councillors are being asked to consider a capital funding bid as part of the 2026/27 budget process, rather than because of any change in safety.

A decision regarding the funding is expected in March 2026. If funding is not approved, the current enhanced inspection and monitoring regime would continue.

Why is funding being considered if the pool is safe?

While inspections confirm the affected roof area remains stable, the funding bid is about moving from ongoing monitoring and temporary measures to a planned, more durable solution for the affected area of the building.

This work would support the continued operation of the Complex in the short and medium term, while wider plans for a new Council Leisure and Wellbeing Hub are developed.

What does the £770k funding bid cover?

The capital bid covers proposed work to two separate areas of the Complex.

First, it covers proposed work to the roof area above the plant room and pool hall, where RAAC has been confirmed.

Second, it covers planned maintenance work to the area beneath the main pool. This work is separate from the RAAC issue and reflects routine maintenance typical for older concrete swimming pools.

If funding is approved, the work would be planned and delivered as part of the Council's capital programme, with a focus on minimising disruption to users of the Complex.

What happens if the funding is not approved?

The current enhanced inspection and monitoring regime would continue.

Will the pool need to close to allow for the work?

At this stage, councillors are being asked to consider a funding bid. If funding is approved, a programme of work would be carefully planned, and any potential impact on service would be communicated in advance.

Customers would be kept informed through the Complex's usual communication channels.

We have carried out surveys across our entire property estate to identify where RAAC may be present. To date, only one building in the Council’s operational estate has been identified as containing RAAC: Grangemouth Sports Complex.