Decision

To appoint and place an order with Southern Asbestos Services Ltd for asbestos removal works at The Studio, with programmed start date of 12th October 2026

Reasons for the decision

The Studio was partly refurbished in November-December 2025 to facilitate NSL’s relocation from Harwood Road Depot and Biffa’s subsequent occupation of the Depot.
Asbestos surveys conducted for the refurbishment confirmed that the textured coating finish to the un-plastered brick walls throughout The Studio contain bound asbestos material (Chrysotile). The scope of the refurbishment works undertaken at The Studio to facilitate NSL’s occupation did not include removal of the textured wall coatings, which remain in-situ and are subject to being managed in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations.

Asbestos Removal Works
It is now necessary to undertake asbestos removal works to remove the textured wall coatings in these rooms;
1st Floor Welfare Room and Cleaners Cupboard:
The textured wall coatings have been damaged as a result of significant damp penetration to the brick gable wall, caused by leaks from failures of old joint seals and flashings (etc) at the junctions of the roof covering, plastic rooflights and wall parapet above these rooms. Best possible repairs have been made to the failed seals and flashings to prevent leaks however the roof coverings and weatherings are in generally poor condition, life-expired, and there is an ongoing risk that further leaks could occur in severe weather conditions.
Removal of the damaged textured wall coating is required.
In addition, it is proposed to remove all other undamaged textured wall coatings in the Welfare Room and Cleaners Cupboard to mitigate risk of damage to these coatings should further roof leaks occur.
1st Floor Locker Room
Removal of areas of the textured wall coating is required to enable installation of an MVHR fresh air ventilation unit in this room.
In addition, it is proposed to remove all remaining textured wall coatings in the Locker Room to mitigate risk of damage to these coatings should further roof leaks occur.
Ground Floor Workshop/Storeroom
Removal of areas of the textured wall coatings in the Ground Floor Workshop/Store is required to enable the installation of MVHR fresh air ventilation units.
In addition, it is proposed to remove all remaining textured wall coatings in the Workshop/Store to mitigate risk of damage.

Tenders
2 contractors were invited to tender based on undertaking the asbestos removal works within the designated 5-day (Monday – Friday) vacancy period agreed with NSL and Car Parks.
NSL have also advised that the works must be carried outside their busy summer season.

Contractor Offer price
Southern Asbestos Services Ltd £10,640.00 +VAT
Crucial Environmental Declined due to the 5-day time constraint.

Southern Asbestos Services Ltd’s tender has been checked and is a valid tender. SAS have confirmed their ability to commence the works on 12th October 2026 and complete within the designated 5-day Monday-Friday vacancy period.

Budget
The costs for the works are being contained within existing Property budget E50-201-CD22 (Asbestos Works).

Alternative options considered

1. Do nothing. This option was rejected as the asbestos removal works are necessary.

2. Do not accept the tender. This option was rejected as the offer received for the works demonstrates the level of pricing and availability that could be expected.