Asbestos found at railway yard

The potentially deadly substance was discovered at the Foundry yard near the site of major works.

The railway bridge in Biggar Road, close to Cleland station, is being upgraded in preparation for the electrification of the Glasgow-Shotts-Edinburgh line.

A Network Rail spokesman said: “As is standard practice, we undertook analysis of ground conditions at the Foundry yard site and, not unexpectedly given its former usage, we found contaminants, including asbestos.

“As a precaution, we limited vehicle access to the site until a full analysis had been completed and the results became known.

“Assessment and analysis indicated that results of samples taken at six different parts of the site were below levels where their presence would be deemed a risk. We contacted the Health & Safety Executive in this regard and they have confirmed this analysis.”

Network Rail said it will follow a recommendation to install a membrane and a compacted layer of ballast to minimise the risk of any contaminants becoming airborne and causing a risk.

The spokesman added: “Safety is our top priority and the action we are taking is based on expert guidance and reflects the importance we place on protecting the health and well being of our work force and the community surrounding the work site.

“The additional work required to make safe the site is relatively small in relation to the overall site set up programme and should not delay plans to establish the site or to support the delivery of work to electrify the line.”