A clean-up operation is underway following a fire at Gospel Mission Hall in Barnoldswick on Saturday which could have released asbestos cement debris into the local area.
A team from RS Asbestos, appointed by the council to remove debris from streets, gardens, yards and Valley Gardens Park, is now in the area. And air monitoring will be in place across parts of Barnoldswick to assess the concentration of airborne fibres in the surrounding area.David Walker, assistant director of operational services for Pendle Borough Council, said: "Many buildings such as warehouses and garages were built with asbestos cement roofs.
Phillip Spurr, Pendle Borough Council’s director of place, added: "Please do not remove debris yourself or mow your lawn until your home has been assessed by RS Asbestos. Staff will show ID – don’t give anyone access to your home if they don’t have it." Sarah Whitwell, head of housing and environmental health, said: "We’ve had a number of calls from concerned residents about whether dust on their cars contains asbestos. It’s very unlikely but we’re advising people to wear a mask and wipe off the dust with a damp cloth and a small amount of washing up liquid.Should anyone find asbestos after the clean-up has been completed, do not put it in your grey bin.