"No significant levels" of asbestos following derelict building fire
Norwich City Council is still asking some residents to keep windows and doors closed
Last updated 21st Jan 2025
Norwich City Council says it's found no significant levels of asbestos in the air, after a fire at a derelict building containing the substance overnight.
Work is ongoing this evening to make the Dibden Road site safe, which officials say may involve partial demolition.
Some locals are still being told to keep windows and doors shut.
Norwich City Council advised residents within 80 metres of the building to keep windows and doors closed, and not touch any debris.
In a statement, the authority added: "Please be assured, we are working closely with the site owners to ensure all work is carried out in line with strict safety guidance, with measures in place to minimise noise and dust.
"Specialist asbestos operatives are on-site to handle any materials safely.
"While asbestos-containing materials may have been released in the smoke and deposited as ash or debris, the health risk is low. Asbestos fibres are typically contained within their original material and are not easily released into the air."
George White Junior School, on Silver Road, has also confirmed it's shut today as a result of the fire, issuing this statement: "Following advice from the multi-agency resilience forum, the school is closed today as a precautionary measure following the major fire in the area of the school last night."
Investigations are continuing, to work out what caused the fire.