Last Updated on May 20, 2024 by Dan

Pupils return to school in Ipswich after asbestos closure

Broke Hall Primary School in Ipswich, Suffolk, closed for one week at the start of the autumn term due to asbestos being discovered on the premises.

Builders working at the school disturbed the asbestos whilst they were working in the school library.

The school temporarily closed in order to remove the asbestos for the sake of safety to staff and pupils, and reopened on 12th September 2016, when pupils returned to start the new term.

The Headteacher, Jenny Barr, thanked parents and staff for their understanding and support over the matter, with most parents fully backing the temporary closure.

She wrote to parents saying, “I would like to thank you all for the support and understanding that you have shown regarding the decision to close the school.”

“Please be reassured that I would not reopen the school if I was not totally confident that the school was safe for your children and the staff.”

“It is disappointing that the school will not look as we would wish and there are logistical issues to overcome.”

“However, the priority now is for us to welcome you and your children back to school and the teaching and learning to begin.”

Library books to be removed

A large number of books are having to be removed from the school’s library over fears they may be contaminated with asbestos, including reading scheme books.

Mrs Barr added,  “We are deeply saddened by the loss of the books, however, initially I feared the whole library would be lost and that is not the case.  In time we will restock and rebuild the library.  That occasion will be a day for celebration!”

Replacement books will arrive soon for the library, the Headteacher assured parents.

And the asbestos will continue to be cleared from the building during term time until it has all been successfully removed.

The library will be sealed off and closed to students and staff for the time being.

Source of article:  www.ipswichstar.co.uk/news/back_to_school_for_pupils_at_broke_hill_primary_school_after_asbestos_find_led_to_closure_1_4692816 by Gemma Mitchell

Duty holders and employers have a legal responsibility to manage asbestos in their building so as not to put employees at risk. Contact our Armco office for asbestos management and refurbishment/ demolition surveys on 0161 763 3727 or by visiting https://www.armco.org.uk/

Alternatively, to book onto one of our asbestos training courses, please call 0161 761 4424 or visit https://www.armcoasbestostraining.co.uk/ 

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Published Sep 29, 2016