The asbestos was found dumped in Curriot Hill

Asbestos dumped in Crewkerne – and left for weeks

Tait ap EllisNovember 21, 20240 Comment0

SOMERSET Council has been accused of neglecting its residents after it failed to dispose of fly-tipped asbestos in Crewkerne in a timely manner.

Several large metal sheets, believed to be roofing sheets covered in asbestos, were dumped at Curriott Hill off Barn Close in Crewkerne on October 30.

The metal sheets were believed to have been dumped by a fly-tipper.

Despite Somerset Council being made aware of the asbestos on the same day thanks to a passerby noticing it had been dumped in the lane, the council is still yet to collect it for disposal.

The council says the asbestos could not be picked up as easily as other waste, as due to its hazardous nature the asbestos must be collected by specialists.

It says it aims to collect fly-tipped waste such as this within five days, but complications arose with its specialist contractor who struggled to fit a vehicle down the tight country lane.

Asbestos was used as insulation for buildings, boilers and pipes for many years before it was banned in 1985 due to the risks to health if inhaled.

Breathing in high concentrations of asbestos for a long period of time can affect the lungs, causing a disease called asbestosis where breathing becomes difficult and the heart enlarges.

A Crewkerne resident, who first noticed the asbestos and wishes to remain anonymous, has accused Somerset Council of neglect over its handling of the situation.

They say that as the metal sheets were left on the path for a number of weeks, the subsequent wet weather could have washed the asbestos into nearby waterways, or walkers could have been exposed to it when passing by.

The metal sheets were damaged and left on the ground

“Despite repeated efforts to prompt action, the council has failed to address the situation,” they said.

“I have reported this incident multiple times, contacting the council directly, speaking to highways and environmental health and reaching out to local councillors.

“Yet, to date, no action has been taken, nor have I received any updates.

“Each day that passes without removal of this dangerous material increases the risk, especially for children who walk past this area on their way to school.

“Asbestos, when fragmented, can release airborne fibres that are known to cause severe health issues, including respiratory illnesses and cancer.

“It is concerning that the council has not only failed to remove this hazardous waste but also ignored its duty to protect public safety.

“This situation reflects a troubling lack of care and accountability, leaving residents to contend with an issue that poses serious health risks.”

A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “The council’s team responded to the report and went to make a collection within the usual five working days.

“Having confirmed the material to be asbestos, it couldn’t be picked up by our own team but has been passed on to the specialist contractor working with our waste services.

“They have attended but couldn’t get access to the spot, and so will be returning with a smaller vehicle as soon as possible.

“We do our very best to respond to all reports of fly-tipping as soon as we can, but when certain materials are involved certain steps have to be taken and the process can take time.”