A demolitions expert has spoken out to quash concerns over dust coming from a Colchester building site, which contains asbestos.

Asbestos fears - tool-maker Paul Ost is concerned about dust coming from a building site in Hawkins Road, Colchester

People working near to the former Spottiswoode Ballantyne printing site, in Hawkins Road, The Hythe, contacted the Evening Gazette over their fears.

Elvanite Full Circle, a demolition firm based in Haven Road, Colchester, is in charge of tearing down the buildings at the plot.

One of those with concerns is Paul Ost, who works as an engineering tool-maker at Bob Raynor Manufacturers, next to the building site in Hawkins Road.

The 47-year-old married father-of-two, said: "Although I appreciate these buildings need to be removed, I have witnessed a great deal of dust being blown about this site.

"Myself and my colleagues are worried this dust could contain asbestos, which could be spread over surrounding workplaces and the new housing development and Tesco store, just opposite on the other side of the railway line."

Mr Ost, who lives in Lexden, said no information or prior warning had been given to people in the surrounding buildings before the work begun.

Ralf Bailey, managing director of Evanite, said a pre-work survey had shown it was white asbestos in the buildings, which is the least harmful type.

He said workmen were following a stringent method of removing the asbestos and knocking down the buildings, which had been approved by an independent planning supervisor.

Mr Bailey added that the Health and Safety Executive was also happy with the work they were doing.

Published Wednesday August 4, 2004

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