Asbestos warning after house explosion
RESIDENTS have been warned that debris from the house that exploded in Birstall could contain asbestos.
Charnwood Borough Council sent out a letter to 130 residents around Allington Drive that said that some elements of the house including the soffit boards may have contained the dangerous substance.
On December 11, a massive blast which was sparked by a cooker generator switch following a pipe leak claimed the life of 79-year-old Janet Jasper when it ripped through her and husband John’s home.
The explosion has meant that at least nine houses in the area have had to be abandoned, and families and pensioners who live in the houses and bungalows have been told that they won’t be able to return to them until the summer.
The letter to resdients from the council said: “As you will know, the council has been involved with supporting the community since the tragic events in Allington Drive on December 11.
“We have offered advice and support on housing issues, council tax and on the safety of buildings to a number of people in the area.
“That offer of support remains in place and there are some handy contact numbers below as we recognise this situation will continue for many weeks and months to come for some people.
“We are writing to you as it has been recently raised that some elements of the house involved in the explosion, such as the soffit boards, may have contained asbestos.
“As debris from the explosion scattered in the area, and possibly on to your property, then there is a very small possibility that some of it may contain asbestos. Asbestos found on private property is the responsibility of the property owner.
“We would advise that if you are clearing any debris from your property and believe it may contain asbestos then please leave it in place and contact your insurance company to discuss having it removed.”
The council said that street cleaning crews have not reported any findings of substances which could be asbestos and that “there is nothing to be concerned about.”