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Beach at The Warren in Folkestone, reopens after asbestos discovery

19:54, 19 June 2020

updated: 20:24, 19 June 2020

A popular beach has been reopened almost a month after asbestos was discovered.

The beach at The Warren in Folkestone was forced to close after coastal erosion sparked contamination fears in May.

The beach at The Warren has now been reopened
The beach at The Warren has now been reopened

The asbestos was subsequently identified the following day as experts worked to remove it.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) revealed yesterday that the material came from a former landfill site.

It is understood that the material became exposed due to coastal erosion before falling.

A wall made from rocks was built around the area to protect it, while the council worked on a short and long-term plan.

However, the council has announced that the beach has been reopened after tests came back showing "no significant risk to public health".

The area of beach that was closed. Photo: FHDC/ Ordinance Survey
The area of beach that was closed. Photo: FHDC/ Ordinance Survey

A council spokesman said:"We’re pleased to announce that the beach at The Warren has now been reopened.

"Emergency works to prevent any further coastal erosion have been completed meaning it is now safe for people to visit once again.

"However, please do stay away from the cliff face itself.

"We will spend time on undertaking survey work and developing a more permanent solution moving forward."

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone

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