News Summary
Kirklees Council has confirmed that no asbestos was detected in the air at the Westgate construction site in Cleckheaton, following a week of testing. Local residents raised concerns about dust generated from construction activities, fearing potential asbestos exposure. Despite independent testing showing clean air, the council urged the developer to enhance dust control measures. Historical records from the site reveal a troubling past as it housed an asbestos factory, prompting calls for further safety assessments amid rising health issues among residents.
Clean Air Confirmed at Westgate Development Site Amid Asbestos Fears
The Kirklees Council has officially announced that no asbestos was detected in the air surrounding the ongoing construction site at Westgate in Cleckheaton, following an extended week of air quality testing from August 11 to 15. This development comes amidst growing concerns from local residents regarding dust generated by construction activities and its potential asbestos content.
Additional Testing and Ongoing Concerns
Residents had raised alarms after initial asbestos findings emerged in dust samples collected from nearby homes during the preceding months of June and July. In response, the council pledged to carry out further air quality assessments to ensure the health and safety of the community. Independent tests conducted at the site boundary confirmed the absence of asbestos fibers in the air, with plans for ongoing monitoring to continue reassessing air quality.
Despite the absence of detected asbestos, the council has urged the developer, Strata Homes, to enhance dust control measures on-site. This step includes the implementation of advanced damping techniques to manage dust generation effectively, ensuring a safe environment for nearby residents.
Development Under Scrutiny
Strata Homes, granted planning permission in October 2023 for the construction of 180 homes at Westgate, is now managed by the affordable housing provider Thirteen Group. The construction site, however, harbors a troubling history, as records indicated that it was once home to an asbestos factory. Strata Homes was reportedly unaware of this previous usage prior to recent findings, prompting the development of a remediation strategy to tackle any potential contamination issues.
Health Issues Reported by Residents
Residents have expressed their growing unease, citing health complications since construction commenced in May, including heightened use of inhalers and increased referrals to hospitals. Amid these rising concerns, independent testing of dust samples taken by residents revealed asbestos in five out of seven samples, inciting calls for an immediate halt to construction activities.
Historical investigations also identified asbestos in four soil samples taken from the site during the planning process, although officials have advised that such findings are not uncommon in developments with a similar background.
Public Meeting and Community Response
A public meeting held on August 6 became a platform for residents to voice their significant apprehensions regarding the health risks associated with the ongoing construction. There were unanimous calls for investigations into the health impacts and a request for the work to cease until more comprehensive safety measures could be implemented. The local community remains firm in its demand for independent testing and a thorough review of safety protocols ahead of any deeper site drilling.
Compliance and Future Monitoring
Both Strata Homes and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have emphasized their dedication to maintaining health and safety standards throughout the construction process. Several site assessments conducted by Kirklees Council and the HSE have so far reported no significant concerns. However, the HSE is keen on obtaining additional monitoring documentation to ensure compliance and oversight.
Amidst these developments, organizations such as Mesothelioma UK have reiterated that asbestos should have no presence in household dust, underlining the critical importance of proper remediation of contaminated sites. Kirklees Council remains committed to addressing the residents’ worries, ensuring ongoing tests are performed, and adhering to regulations regarding dust control measures.
As construction continues, the collaboration between developers, local authorities, and residents will be essential in fostering a safe environment while also paving the way for future developments.
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