A VILLAGE school has been forced to close after Legionella bacteria was found in its water tanks.
It was reported earlier today that St George’s Primary School, in Brook Street, Great Bromley, is shut due to “site issues”.
The school had been closed since Tuesday and was listed on Essex County Council’s emergency closure list this morning.
A statement on the school’s website confirmed it had to shut down after experiencing an issue with its water supply.
It said: “We are unable to operate as usual.
“Further updates will be communicated via parent mail”.
A spokesman has now confirmed the closure is related to Legionella being detected in one of the school’s water tanks following routine testing.
They said: “This was flagged quickly, and action is already underway to disinfect and clean the system.
“The chances of contracting illness from Legionella are small, however it is not a risk we are prepared to take.
“The school will be closed while thorough cleaning and testing take place, with remote learning and daily tasks arranged for the children.”
Legionella can cause different forms of pneumonia including a severe version called Legionnaires' disease.
The spokesman said parents and carers will be kept up to date as disinfection and testing progresses.
They said: “The wellbeing of our pupils and staff must always come first so the school can open safely.”
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