Asbestos News

The demolition of two vacant towers in Laindon, UK, has been delayed until September after work had initially been scheduled to begin last November, the Essex Echo reports.

According to the news provider, the project's latest delay is the result of negotiations over a store owner's move and more delays to the first phase of the project.

The demolition of the two towers is reportedly part of a £13 million project that will see the construction of 129 homes, a community center and a store, the news source said.

While some of the housing construction has already taken place, the process has lasted longer than expected. Still, Basildon Council leader Tony Ball said that the fact that asbestos removal has already begun to take place is a positive sign.

"The fact they have started stripping out asbestos gives us confidence," said Ball.

It is important that asbestos is properly handled and removed during demolition work as exposure to the dangerous material can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.