EAST Tilbury Primary School has submitted a retrospective planning application for the marquee it has erected to allow pupils to attend school.

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) was discovered in one the school's permanent buildings earlier this year, and the school is one of a number across Thurrock affected by the problem.

RAAC is a lightweight, 'bubbly' form of concrete commonly used in construction between the 1950s and mid-1990s. It is predominantly found as precast panels in roofs, commonly found in flat roofs, and occasionally in floors and walls.

Where RAAC has been discovered in schools, the Department for Education says it will cover the cost of mitigation and installation of temporary accommodation.

The marquee, which is 240sq metres, has been located on the adjacent school field.