Cllr Gail Engert, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson in Haringey, has expressed deep concern at figures released this week showing that Haringey has 30 temporary buildings in use in LEA-run schools in the borough.

The figures, published by the Government in response to a question from Lib Dem Parliamentary Spokesperson on London Sarah Teather MP, also showed the estimated costs of repair and maintenance – including the estimated backlog of repairs – for the next five years.

Haringey is estimated to need over £39m to repair and maintain schools over this period and Cllr Engert fears that these figures could mean that many of the temporary buildings currently in use could become permanent at the schools where they are sited.

She says that she will be raising her concerns over temporary buildings and pushing for clear plans from the Council and LEA for replacing the temporary buildings.

Cllr Gail Engert (Muswell Hill) comments:

“These figures make worrying reading. We need to establish how many children are being regularly taught in temporary buildings at primary and secondary schools.”

Lynne Featherstone, Lib Dem Parliamentary spokeswoman for Hornsey and Wood Green, adds:

“Haringey Council needs to have a clear idea of what temporary means and stick to it. We will be asking the Council to detail its plans for the replacement of these temporary buildings that do little to enhance the teaching environment.”