THE Welsh government will pay to repair schools at risk of collapse due to the use of defective concrete in their construction, it has been announced.

A £2.56 million budget has been made available to cover the cost of remedial works for the five schools affected by reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) in Wales.

The number of schools in Wales found to have Raac is low compared with the 230 in England and 39 in Scotland.

Minister for Education and Welsh Language Jeremy Miles said the fact that so few Welsh cases had been identified was “testament to the Welsh government’s investment in schools over many years.

He added: “I want to make sure every learner can fulfil their potential and their education is delivered in environments that are fit for purpose.”

The leader of Ynys Mon/Isle of Anglesey Council, which covers two affected schools, welcomed the additional funding.

Cllr Llinos Medi said: “More remedial works are needed and it is important these are carried out as quickly as possible to ensure all areas within the school buildings are safe to use.”

Money to repair the schools in England at risk of collapse is to come from the Department for Education’s existing capital budget, it is understood.