COUNCIL bosses say they are “closely monitoring” levels of asbestos in the area’s schools – but that none of the buildings where the material is found require urgent attention.

Following a freedom of information (FOI) request from the Chronicle, East Ayrshire Council officials said earlier this year that 25 primary and secondary schools in the area had at least one item of asbestos in the building.

READ MORE: Asbestos discovered in many of East Ayrshire’s schools

In response to a follow-up FOI request, the council insisted that none of those items needed removed any time soon – and that annual re-inspections take place at all the area’s schools.

East Ayrshire Council have said current levels of asbestos in the area’s schools are being closely monitored and that none of the items have to be treated as a matter of urgency. A Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the Cumnock Chronicle to East Ayrshire Council earlier this year found that there were 25 primary and secondary schools in the area with at least one item of asbestos found in their building.

However, a follow-up FOI has found that none of these items need to be removed any time soon.

East Ayrshire Council carry out annual asbestos re-inspections at all of their schools.

When asked about monitoring and removal work, a spokesperson for East Ayrshire Council said: “All asbestos that has been identified as deteriorating or requiring encapsulation has been carried out as soon as it is identified.

“We have an extensive school improvement programme in place where asbestos will be removed if present and required as part of the works.

“With all asbestos-containing materials (ACM), East Ayrshire Council do not seek to remove asbestos as a matter of course as it is safer, according to HSE guidance, to leave it in-situ as long as it is being properly managed, in good condition and unlikely to be damaged or disturbed.

“East Ayrshire Council manage all of the asbestos identified onsite. We will remove/encapsulate items where deterioration has occurred or it is required as part of refurbishment/improvement works.”

Council bosses also say they have undertaken more than 1,500 surveys surrounding the levels of asbestos, assuring they are complying with HSE guidelines.

More information on asbestos health and safety can be found at hse.gov.uk/asbestos.