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28 Jan 04Beach Clean Up Begins
The removal of sand recently placed on a stretch of beach in Poole started on Monday (26 January) as the Council brought in specialist contractors to clear away an estimated 1000 tons of sand. This work follows the discovery of a small piece of cement containing asbestos on a 250-metre section of beach between Shore Road and Flag Head Chine last week. In order to be extremely cautious, members of the public have been excluded from this area. Over the next 2-3 weeks a 360-degree excavator will remove the sand recently placed on the beach. During the work, trucks will make approximately 10-15 visits to the site per day. Entry and access to the stretch of beach will be from Shore Road and the promenade will be shut in sections as the work takes place. The recently placed sand is being removed and examined by independent assessors who will check for any further asbestos. Peter Pawlowski, Head of Consumer Protection, Borough of Poole, said: "We are anxious that this situation is resolved as quickly as possible and will be continually monitoring the whole process to ensure that this happens. The Environment Agency has approved the work and we will remain in close contact with them throughout." He added: "We also remain in close liaison with the Dorset Health Protection Unit who have advised that the risk associated with any of the asbestos found on the beach is very low. This is due to the fact that there does not appear to be much asbestos present and what is there is in cement. This means that the fibres will not be released into the air and the risk of breathing it in is therefore very low. However we are dealing with this in accordance with regulations to ensure the beach is restored to its former top quality status as soon as possible." An investigation is now underway which will be looking at how this situation occurred.
Ruth Lawson, PR Officer (Media), Borough of Poole, tel: (01202) 633295
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