Asbestos discovered at Carnlough play park site

Following enquiries by the Times, the local authority confirmed this week that the potentially-deadly contamination was found after work on the new £100,000 facility in Carnlough began earlier this year.

The council said detail on the expense of the clean-up operation is still being “worked out”, but we understand the projected cost of the play park scheme could soar to twice its original estimate as a result of the discovery.

A council spokesperson added: “Some additional costs are anticipated due to the remedial works and ongoing contractor costs arising from the necessary suspension.”

Work on the project – which is located on council-owned land – is currently suspended, but councillors have resolved that construction should recommence at the site once the contamination has been removed.

East Antrim MLA Oliver McMullan said: “Hopefully the decision will be ratified at next month’s full council meeting.”