
Asbestos insulating board soffits removal in Gateshead
Pelaw Library in Gateshead has undergone a major refurbishment as part of the Levelling Up Scheme, an initiative designed to rebuild communities across the country. The project is partially funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which aims to make a life-changing investment in communities by supporting local businesses and providing people with the transferable skills they need to succeed.
Prior to any refurbishment work, the library was required to conduct an asbestos survey under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012. Following the survey, asbestos-containing insulating board soffits were discovered above the external windows.
Asbestos insulating board is classified as high-risk asbestos-containing material due to its friable nature; therefore professional removal is required before any refurbishment could go ahead.
Henderson Environmental was contracted to remove the asbestos under fully controlled conditions.


Over the course of 12 days, our team built six purpose-built enclosures to allow operatives to carry out the work in a safe and fully controlled manner. The enclosures were located on the public highway next to the library; however, exclusion zones and Heras fencing were installed to ensure public safety and site security.
Following this, the removal operations began. The insulating board was dampened with surfactant using a low-pressure spray and then removed carefully. The asbestos insulating board was completely removed, allowing refurbishment works to safely commence.
An independent analytical company was present at all times to conduct background and personal air monitoring while asbestos removal took place.
We received the following client feedback:
“A well-planned operation carried out very efficiently by a great team. It must not go unmentioned that the team carried out the task without any problems and their approach to not only their work but to that of general site safety was impeccable. It is always a reassuring thought when I know Henderson Environmental are coming to the site to carry out our asbestos removal.”
If you’re looking for professional asbestos removal services, contact a member of our team today.