School Opening Delayed after Asbestos Discovery
Asbestos was discovered underneath a water tank in Selsdon High School, Farnborough. The school had been already closed on April 5 after traces of the legionella bacteria were found at the nearby Monks Hill Sports Centre, which gets its water supply from a boiler house at the adjoining school.
Officials expect all traces of the carcinogenic substance can be eradicated in another 4-5 days. The school has been scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, May 8.
It is said that asbestos was discovered at the end of last week. It was found embedded in concrete underneath one of the tanks.
Necessary maintenance work to the school's water and heating system has been almost finished.
The officials had informed parents and pupils regarding the delay through a letter sent to homes however, nothing had been mentioned of the new discovery. The letter addressed by headteacher Janet Packer says that they are planning to open the school on the May 8 subject to remedial works being completed.
Ms. Janet says in the letter, "Unfortunately, we have had major leaks which have had to be repaired. This has affected the progress of work being carried out by specialist contractors.
"There are contingency plans in place for students doing exams. Educational visits for Years seven and eight have been arranged for next week."
Janet assured the parents and students that they were doing everything within their power to enable the school to re-open and that she would write again next week about SATs arrangements.
