In 2018 Cardiff Council instructed allotment plot holders to inspect their plots for asbestos, with a view to its removal from site by their specialist contractors. The material referred to was the asbestos-cement sheeting, used by builders for garage roofing etc. and often found on allotments. There’s further information on the unlicensed – as is permitted – removal of this material from the Health And Safety Executive.
However, the disposal contractors were only willing to pick up loose material, and so tenants were advised to place it in the old clubhouse, which was temporarily designated as its repository. The advice was that the sheeting historically used by builders was low hazard if not further broken, especially if thoroughly wetted before handling it.
The scheme appeared very successful, with quite a large quantity being taken off site.
However, PPAA Committee have recently been informed that there’s still some asbestos on at least one plot, its tenant in the end not having taken up the offer in 2018, nor having informed the then Committee that they hadn’t, despite showing enthusiasm for the plan at the time.
PPAA Committee have forwarded this tenant’s report to the Council, and await their response to the request for someone to dig out the asbestos, and to remove it for the tenant (such work not being required of PPAA under its Local Management Agreement with the Council, who remain responsible for the removal of hazardous waste.)
PPAA Committee are aware of some residual asbestos remaining on or behind a few of the brick cubicles awaiting renovation, but would encourage all plot holders to check carefully for any asbestos on their gardens, and to inform the Committee of any significant quantities.
Thanks everyone.
Update: All detectable asbestos on or adjoining the plot mentioned has now been removed, and taken off site by licensed contractor, Care Environmental Surveying Ltd.
Photographs of the relevant parts before and after the work have been taken.
A Disposal Certificate will be forwarded to the Council in due course.
PPA Website Team
