MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Asbestos forces Gateway closure at Brize Norton

Brize Norton Airport

The accommodation facility at RAF Brize Norton, Gateway House which is available to all passengers travelling on scheduled flights, including twice weekly to the Falkland Islands, has been closed while suspected asbestos contamination is investigated.

Along with the provision of 372 bed spaces, Gateway House also provides meals and drinks and facilities for passengers.

Recent building works have revealed a level of asbestos contamination. As a precaution the facility has been closed and will remain closed whilst further investigations are undertaken to establish the level of contamination.

Only the accommodation areas have been closed. Other facilities such as lounges, dining rooms and bars are still open as normal and are available to passengers once they have checked in at the terminal. The terminal also has a new coffee shop which can provide pre-flight snacks and beverages.

Captain Laura Evans of Media Operations said anyone requiring accommodation prior to their departure will need to make alternative arrangements. "Military personnel will be accommodated in barracks at either Brize Norton or South Cerney. Civilian passengers will need to arrange any pre-flight accommodation in local hotels. Movements staff at Brize Norton and Gateway House can assist in this." "In the event of an extended delay," she continued, "Brize Norton will assist in making alternative accommodation arrangements; either in military accommodation for service personnel or hotels for other passengers, as appropriate."

Further investigations to establish the levels of asbestos contamination are being undertaken as a matter of priority, Captain Evans said. "A full contingency plan will be promulgated by the end of this week."

She said RAF Brize Norton apologises for any inconvenience this may have caused, "...however the health and safety of our employees, visitors and guests is of utmost importance. We will always endeavour to make our passengers as comfortable as possible." Penguin News