Moles Uncover Asbestos Contamination at Gloucestershire Playing Field

The Valley Playing Field in Chalford, near Stroud, Gloucestershire, has been closed to the public after moles digging in the area brought fragments of what is believed to be asbestos to the surface. The closure began on July 4th following the discovery of these potential asbestos pieces on the playing field.

Experts suspect the debris consists of cement-bound asbestos fibers, a hazardous material once widely used in construction. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health issues such as asbestosis, a rare but severe lung condition that develops after prolonged exposure.

According to the NHS, “Asbestosis is a rare but serious lung condition that affects people exposed to asbestos (a building material used from the 1950s to the 1990s). It cannot be cured, but treatment may improve the symptoms.”

The playing field is a popular spot for families during the summer months, featuring swings, a zip-wire, climbing equipment, and an all-weather table tennis table. However, it will remain closed until detailed sampling, analysis, and a comprehensive risk assessment can be conducted.

Kate Arnold, the Parish Clerk of Chalford, stated, “The parish council became aware on July 1st that pieces of potential cement-bound asbestos were being unearthed by mole activity. Consultants visited the following day to carry out initial sampling to confirm the nature of the material.”

She added, “As a precaution, we closed the site on July 4th to the public and are currently in the process of hiring an Environmental Consultant for more in-depth investigation. The forthcoming report will also explore possible remediation strategies if necessary. We were not previously aware that asbestos was present in the soil until the moles started bringing it to the surface.”

The community awaits the results of the environmental assessments as the parish council prioritizes public safety and environmental health at the site.