Assurances made over asbestos discovery at Wem Town Hall
There is 'no major concern' over asbestos discovered at Wem Town Hall, officials said today.
The low levels of asbestos were discovered during work at the hall.
Shropshire Council organised for work to be carried out in the boiler room, which is an original part of the building.
Town hall bosses say the council's contractors have been rubbing down flaky paintwork and surface residue on walls, and due to the age of the building there are some low levels of asbestos present in the residue.
The town hall has been closed since Wednesday to undergo maintenance work in preparation for this year's events. It was due to re-open to the public today.
Sue Gainsborough, director of Wem Town Hall, said: "Contractors are rubbing down flaky paintwork /surface residue on walls and will reseal it once completed.
"Due to the age of the Edwardian building there are, not surprisingly, some very low levels of asbestos present in the residue and the work therefore has to be carried out with care.
"Whilst the building is not open to the public, staff are in working as usual and we have other repairs and maintenance underway that prevent the public being in.
"There is no major concern regarding asbestos in the building."
The town hall is owned by Shropshire Council but managed by a partnership including the town's Thomas Adams School.
