The discovery of asbestos has delayed refurbishment work in a Cullercoats public toilet.
The public toilets, south of Cullerocoats Bay and off Beverley Terrace, were discovered to contain asbestos following analysis of a suspect cement pipe collar. The material has been subsequently removed and disposed of by specialised contractors.
The use of any asbestos in construction works has been illegal in the UK since 1999, although had been used extensively throughout the 1970s and 80s. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the material is responsible for the deaths of 5,000 tradesmen a year.
Mark Longstaff, director of commissioning and asset management, said: “Prior to any refurbishment or demolition work starting, we will carry out full asbestos and refurbishment demolition surveys to ensure the safety of the site.
“Unfortunately, we found a small amount of undisturbed asbestos and our team is now working to safely dispose of this before progressing with the work. The surrounding area poses no risk to the public.”
The project has also been plagued with delayed deliveries but it is estimated the toilets will re-open in mid-August.
Cullercoats councillor Willie Samuel said: "I am delighted that at long last these toilets will re-open In August. I have been pushing for some time for this upgrade and was disappointed they weren’t available for the summer season this year.
"Prior to this work being commissioned they’d become a bit of an eyesore. You need public toilets in locations like this that attract a lot of visitors."
According to the NHS, prolonged exposure to loose asbestos fibres can lead to fibres scarring the lungs resulting in the condition asbestosis. Symptoms include a persistent cough, wheezing, chest pains, and extreme tiredness.
However, it can take up to 20 or 30 years before symptoms develop.
