Library closes for refurbishment after asbestos find

A library has temporarily closed after asbestos was discovered in its ceiling.

Wakefield Council planned to shut Ossett Library on September 10 for nine weeks whilst refurbishment work took place.

But it brought forward the closure after the asbestos was found during preparatory work. And it said the building had been shut “as a precautionary measure” and air quality testing has shown there is no health risk to people.

A full survey is now being carried out to identify the extent of the issue and how the asbestos could affect the planned revamp.

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Councillor Les Shaw, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, said:

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we are providing a mobile library service in the car park, in the short term, while the survey is carried out.”

Once upgraded, the library will have new flooring, decor, furniture and shelving as well as a seating area and improved local studies section with film readers. Mr Shaw added:

“These improvements at Ossett Library will make it a more modern and even more enjoyable space for visitors.”

For more details, visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/libraries or call 0345 8506 506.