The Valley Playing Field in Chalford, near Stroud, is set to reopen to the public next week following an extensive investigation into asbestos contamination concerns. The field was closed in July last year after reports emerged that moles were bringing suspected asbestos-containing material to the surface.
At the time of closure, Chalford Parish Council stated that cement-bound asbestos was potentially present and needed careful examination before the site could safely reopen. Parish council members noted that they were unaware of the asbestos presence until mole activity revealed material on the surface.
Asbestos exposure, particularly prolonged, poses serious health risks, including the development of asbestosis, a rare but incurable lung condition. Consequently, the closure was a precautionary measure to protect public health.
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Recent investigative results, reviewed by the environmental health team at Stroud District Council, have classified the playing field’s risk as category 4 - the lowest possible level. The parish council expressed relief and satisfaction with these findings and has scheduled the field’s reopening for 28 August.
In their official notice, the parish council acknowledged the frustration caused by the extended closure and uncertainty surrounding the asbestos risk. They confirmed that asbestos-containing materials from Fibrecrete were used to level the site in 1946, with chrysotile (white), crocidolite (blue), and amosite (brown) asbestos types present beneath the surface. While chrysotile asbestos has occasionally surfaced in molehills, the fibre levels are considered too low to pose significant harm.
To further safeguard users, the parish council has purchased a new mower designed to reduce airborne fibre levels and discourage mole activity. Work on the field is expected to be completed next week, with the site reopening to the public by Friday, 28 August.
Green Party councillor Tricia Watson, representing Chalford at Ebley Mill, commended the parish council’s thorough approach. She highlighted the collaborative effort involving the district council and contaminated land specialists to ensure the field’s safety. “Although the process took longer than anyone desired, it has resulted in the correct outcome,” she said.