Asbestos Concerns Emerge in Cleckheaton Housing Development

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News Summary

As construction on a new housing project in Cleckheaton raises alarms, residents report asbestos dust in their homes. The situation has escalated following a contamination report, prompting community action and calls for stricter safety measures from developers and local authorities. Health risks lurk amid construction as residents report worsening medical conditions, highlighting the urgency for accountability and transparency in handling hazardous materials.

Residents Demand Action as Asbestos Concerns Emerge During Housing Development

As construction on a new housing project continues in Cleckheaton, residents are raising urgent alarms after reports of asbestos dust presence in their homes. The situation has escalated since ground was broken on the development a few months ago, stirring up dust that has led to growing trepidation among locals.

Developers and the Community at Odds

The controversy began when planning permissions were granted in October 2023 to Strata Homes for the construction of 180 new homes on an area off Westgate. Although the development was initially hailed for its potential to boost local housing, it has become a source of distress for nearby residents. Strata Homes asserts that their operations adhere to established safety regulations, but this has done little to quell the fears of the community.

A recent contamination report revealed an “unknown quantity” of asbestos at the site, historically a chemical works and previously filled in by a former tenant. Alarmingly, this has led to the creation of a Remediation Strategy aimed at addressing the health risks associated with contaminants, including asbestos. The report recommends a “precautionary approach,” anticipating the discovery of more asbestos during the initial phases of construction.

Testing and Findings Raise Red Flags

In light of these revelations, residents have taken matters into their own hands, submitting dust samples from their homes to an asbestos specialist for rigorous analysis. The findings are concerning, with samples confirming the presence of both amosite (brown asbestos) and chrysotile (white asbestos), known to pose different levels of health risks. The revelation that homes, including gardens and even windowsills, have tested positive for hazardous materials has sparked outrage and fear among the residents.

Local populations, already anxious about their health, have reported new medical issues emerging since construction commenced. Despite the project being enclosed by a chain-link fence with insufficient barriers to contain possible contaminants, residents remain continuously vigilant about the potential dangers.

Health and Safety Monitoring Under Scrutiny

While the Thirteen Group, now managing the site after Strata Homes acquired it, dismissed allegations of unsafe practices, they have claimed that construction is being executed in a “phased and controlled” manner. However, the mere presence of asbestos and dust in their homes raises serious questions about the adequacy of this approach. Health authorities including Kirklees Council and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have conducted multiple visits to the site, yet have raised no significant concerns thus far.

But as fears mount around upcoming pile driving activities scheduled for the site, residents are particularly worried that this could disturb underground materials, further exacerbating the problem. Reports of residents experiencing worsened respiratory issues, with many requiring inhalers and consultations for chest X-rays, amplify the gravity of the situation.

Community Action and Legal Response

In response to the alarming findings, residents have started crowdfunding efforts aimed at pursuing potential legal action against the developer. This move underscores the extent of their concerns about the safety protocols in place. Engaging with Kirklees Council has been an ongoing effort for these residents, who are demanding stringent safety measures to be enforced.

The situation evolves as residents seek assurance regarding their safety and health amidst ongoing construction. With the presence of hazardous materials like asbestos in their environment, the call for accountability and protection continues to strengthen across the local community.

As the construction progresses, it remains crucial for both the developers and governmental agencies to prioritize the health and safety of residents, addressing concerns with transparency and dedication to public welfare.