Powys Castle, Wales Asbestos Removal Case Study

Project overview

City Environmental Services (UK) Ltd was appointed by the National Trust to undertake specialist asbestos removal and encapsulation works at Powys Castle, Wales. The project involved asbestos thermal insulation associated with pipework running through historic service ducts beneath the property. Working within an important heritage building demanded a carefully planned approach that combined licensed asbestos expertise with specialist skills to protect and reinstate the original building fabric.

Scope of works

• Controlled removal of asbestos thermal insulation from pipework and associated fittings within basement service ducts and concealed service routes.

• Encapsulation of retained asbestos insulation where removal was not required, together with detailed environmental cleaning of the surrounding areas.

• Specialist lifting, protection and careful reinstatement of original flagstone floor duct covers to provide access while preserving the historic fabric of the property.

THE CHALLENGE

The asbestos-containing pipe insulation was located within narrow historic service ducts beneath the castle. Access required sections of original flagstone flooring and duct covers to be carefully lifted without damage. The project therefore required more than asbestos removal expertise alone: the contractor needed a proven understanding of working in listed and heritage buildings, where protection of historic materials, restricted access and sensitive reinstatement are fundamental to successful delivery.

HOW CES DELIVERED

CES used an experienced heritage-focused team to sequence the works around the existing structure. Flagstones were carefully identified, lifted and protected before controlled asbestos removal and encapsulation commenced. Licensed enclosure, negative pressure and decontamination controls were combined with low-disturbance working methods. On completion, the original floor duct covers were reinstated to a high standard, leaving the historic finishes protected and the service areas ready for continued use.

Safety and quality controls

All asbestos works were completed under appropriate controlled conditions in accordance with current UK asbestos legislation and industry best practice. Particular emphasis was placed on protecting the castle fabric, maintaining clean access routes and preventing damage during the lifting and reinstatement process. Independent analytical support was used to verify the effectiveness of the controls and support safe handover of completed areas.

Project outcome

The works were completed safely and to the high standard expected within a National Trust property. The asbestos risk was successfully reduced through a combination of removal and encapsulation, while the original flagstone duct covers were carefully reinstated. Powys Castle is a strong example of CES’s extensive experience as a specialist asbestos removal contractor for castles, listed buildings, stately homes and other sensitive heritage properties where workmanship and protection of historic fabric are critical.

Client Feedback

“CES demonstrated a clear understanding of the additional care required when undertaking asbestos works within a historic property. Their team managed the removal and encapsulation works professionally and paid particular attention to protecting and reinstating the original flagstone duct covers. The standard of workmanship and communication throughout the project gave us confidence that the building was in experienced hands.”