Comprehensive School of Social Rehabilitation in Fontanka.

 

Although at first glance these buildings look to be in a sound condition, closer inspection will quickly reveal totally flooded basements and severe structural movement. Unfortunately construction in the area has effect the drainage and water table which has effectively decommissioned this entire site.

This school was particularly important as it was the first refuge of a respectable size to cater for street children. Since the closure of the school two years ago the children have been transferred to other institutions. Effectively the programme of assistance for street children came to an end.

The buildings remain equipped with scholastic materials and the teaching staff are still employed for the time being. This huge resource remains idle at a time where it is badly needed.

The site has been inspected by a qualified surveyor, Andy Hunt from FireTech UK , a leading UK property development company. His findings show that there is a strong possibility of building collapse if the water is drained away. This would be necessary before a full structural survey could be undertaken. The cost of such a survey would be substantial and it may well prove to be more economical to construct new buildings. In the meantime it is hoped that use can be made elsewhere of the staff and equipment, perhaps with the creation of a temporary school utilising port-a-cabin style buildings. Increased usage of the facilities at Victoria Summer Camp may also be an option, although this is situated some distance away and will require a transport provision for the staff.

	A view of one of the main institution structures. It looks deceptively to be in a good condition. The interior is cold and damp and quite unsuitable for further use
	Another view of the main buildings at Fontanka.
	Some of the movement in the structure of the building can be seen here.

A closer look at cracks in the exterior wall.

Cracks to the interior wall can be seen around the window. These cracks extend to floor level.

These cracks have been taped in an effort to measure new movement in the building structure

The basements of all buildings on the site are flooded. Water is as high as 10' and exhorts considerable pressure on the building foundations. If the water is to be drained it is possible that the buildings will collapse.

	Another view looking into a doorway to the basement. The water table has reached ground level.
	Andy Hunt from FireTech UK makes an inspection of the building interior.
	Andy Hunt, Alexander Kapinos and Graham Oliver inspect the condition of the building