Cancelling council meeting was the right decision

If, as a GP, he had been asked whether or not it was right to take a chance on a public meeting where there was even the possibility that the venue had been contaminated by asbestos or other dangerous substance, he would, quite rightly, have said no.

When the Arun council chamber and public gallery were being prepared for the meeting scheduled for March 20, a substance was discovered in the ceiling void which, at first view, appeared as though it may be asbestos-based material, and until it had been professionally analysed must be assumed to be so.

The chief executive, quite rightly, decided the meeting could not go ahead as the safety of staff, councillors and public was in question. In spite of Dr Walsh’s assertions, no other suitable venue was available at short notice that could have accommodated the number of members of the public expected, or be prepared in time.

It should be noted, as Dr Walsh must be well aware, that, if in the circumstances the chief executive had taken the view that it was “worth taking a chance”, and if the substance had proved to be asbestos and had caused harm to anyone, then he would be in danger of being prosecuted personally for a criminal act.

The chief executive made a responsible and professional decision and he was quite right to do so.

Councillor Dudley Wensley, cabinet member, corporate governance, for Arun District Council

North Drive

Angmering