Offices closed after refurb workers disturb asbestos

A county council's offices have been closed after building contractors discovered dangerous levels of asbestos.

The find was made at Norfolk County Council's Carrow House offices in King Street, Norwich.

Contaminated material was disturbed as part of a refurbishment.

One employee said: "We were told there is a very high reading of asbestos. Myself and at least 30 other people have been in direct contact with asbestos dust, breathing it in and being covered in it while doing our work."

Mike Britch, managing director of council-owned property management company NPS Property Consultant, said: “The health and safety of our staff and contractors is our top priority. We are monitoring the situation closely and will take whatever steps are necessary to be certain the situation is properly dealt with."