Asbestos scare won’t halt school demolition

THE demolition of Failsworth Lower School will continue as planned despite hitting a brick wall when workers discovered the building was riddled with asbestos.

The structure, in Partington Street, was earmarked for redevelopment when its new state-of-the-art replacement opened at Brierley Avenue at the start of the year.

A survey confirmed that although asbestos-containing material does exist, it is thought to be in good condition and posed no threat to pupils and staff.

Newly-appointed principal contractor, Reddish Demolition Oldham, is now working to make the site and surrounding area safe and secure.

Internal demolition and removal of asbestos will begin to take place along with service disconnections.

Demolition work is expected to be completed by October.

Councillor Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “Redeveloping this site is a priority for the council.

“However, as with any demolition project, health and safety is a priority requiring specialist advice to safely remove asbestos-containing materials which are contained in the old fabric of the building.

“Safety is paramount and I am glad this has now been sorted out and we can move on.”