High School latest: Contractors in Friday

The operation to clean up the asbestos riddled kitchen and canteen at Welshpool High School will begin tomorrow (Friday).

The area has been sealed off since flood damage caused by burst pipes was discovered over the New Year weekend and a majority of the pupils have still not returned to school for the new term.

But the Health & Safety Executive has given the green light for the clean-up operation to commence with specialist contractors expected on site tomorrow.

“There is no change in regards to which pupils are expected in tomorrow (sixth form and GCSE pupils),” said Graham Lewis, Chair of the School Governors. “The clean-up of the kitchen and canteen will begin as scheduled tomorrow so hopefully we can expect the rest of the pupils back, health and safety permitting, early next week.”

The High School has made determined efforts to clear the rest of the flood damage not contaminated by asbestos which enabled it to partially open yesterday. The bill for the repairs is expected to run into tens of thousands of pounds.