Safety assurance at Counthill

Asbestos risk minimal - councillor
Asbestos at the former Counthill School has been sealed and a suspended ceiling installed to prevent damage.

The asbestos is sprayed on to the ceiling, a common fire retardant in older buildings, but during a regular inspection council staff also recommended the new ceiling.

A report said: “Suspended ceiling required to be fitted below to prevent potential damage from thrown miscellaneous objects.”

The building is now part of the new Waterhead Academy, which combines Counthill and Breeze Hill schools.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for regeneration and environment, said: “The Counthill School drama room ceiling is coated in sprayed asbestos that is sealed for protection.

“It is regularly checked and was resealed as part of the maintenance plan last year.

“Asbestos is present in many buildings and, if managed and maintained correctly, poses no threat whatsoever.

“As this ceiling is over four metres high and has been professionally resealed the risk is negligible.

“However for additional protection, a standard advisory comment to install a false ceiling was included.

“Going forward the management of the building is now the responsibility of the Oasis Academy which is in possession of this report and all asbestos management records relating to the site.”