'Low risk' asbestos to be removed from shop car park

A council has said it found a small amount of asbestos at a Lidl car park following a fire at a neighbouring derelict building.

Somerset Council carried out asbestos assessments after the fire which affected asbestos roofing materials at the Saxonvale site in Frome on 1 July.

The survey found asbestos debris from the fire was contained largely within the site boundary, it said.

The authority added a small amount of debris identified in the Lidl car park has been assessed as presenting "a very low risk", and no action was required but that it would be removed as a precaution.

All results were satisfactory and confirmed there is no danger to the public, the council added.

However, as an additional precaution, the council has instructed a specialist asbestos contractor to remove any asbestos debris that may be present in the car park.

"The safety of residents, visitors and businesses remains our priority, and we will continue to take a cautious and responsible approach while the site is made safe with appropriate advice being issued to neighbouring sites," a spokesperson for the council said.

Police and the fire service have both confirmed that the fire is being treated as suspicious and inquiries are ongoing.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Avon and Somerset Police.

The 12-acre Saxonvale site has been earmarked for redevelopment.

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