Full Breakdown
Council Refuses to Release Asbestos Survey for Barrow Market Hall
5/21/2026, 12:52:23 PM
Core Event: Closure and Non-Disclosure
On 17 February, Westmorland and Furness Council instructed traders at Barrow Market Hall to cease operations, citing recent wet weather that had intensified roof leaks and raised the risk that asbestos could become dislodged. The council subsequently declined a Freedom of Information request for an asbestos survey and management plan commissioned in December, arguing that disclosure could interfere with anticipated legal proceedings.
Background & Context: Asbestos Risk and Weather-Related Leaks
Barrow Market Hall, a public market venue, contains asbestos-containing materials. A risk assessment conducted by an asbestos contractor on 13 February identified “clear evidence” of a roof leak that was “continually failing,” increasing the likelihood that asbestos fibres could be released into the environment. The council linked the worsening leaks to recent heavy rainfall, prompting the decision to close the site for public safety.
Data & Statistics: Survey Dates and Risk Findings
The December asbestos survey and management plan remain undisclosed. The 13 February risk assessment explicitly states “clear evidence” of a roof leak that is “continually failing,” suggesting a heightened exposure risk. No quantitative measurements of asbestos fibre concentrations are provided in the public record.
Official Statements & Responses
Westmorland and Furness Council maintains that releasing the December documents could “adversely affect the course of justice,” as the papers may become “central documentary evidence” in forthcoming litigation. The council also argues that publishing the February risk assessment has already achieved “public awareness of the current position,” rendering further disclosure unnecessary.
Criticism & Opposition
Traders were instructed to cease operations at Barrow Market Hall. The BBC’s Freedom of Information request underscores public interest in the undisclosed survey, and the council’s refusal to release the documents has been noted by the BBC.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The primary gap lies in the undisclosed December asbestos survey and management plan; without these documents, the precise scope of asbestos contamination and the recommended remediation measures remain unknown. No alternative assessments have been released to corroborate or challenge the council’s risk assessment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The council considers that disclosing this evidence into the public domain at this stage, while legal proceedings are anticipated or active, would adversely affect the course of justice.” — Council spokesperson
- “clear evidence” of a leak in the market hall’s roof that was “continually failing.” — Asbestos contractor, risk assessment, 13 February
- “central documentary evidence” — Council statement regarding potential legal proceedings
- “public awareness of the current position” — Council comment on publishing the February risk assessment
What’s Next: Demolition Plans
The Liberal Democrat-led authority has indicated that demolition of Barrow Market Hall is slated to commence within the current financial year.
