AN ‘intrusive’ survey must be carried out at in one of Warrington’s ‘most important’ buildings to establish whether it contains asbestos.

The council has applied for listed building consent for the installation of a new fire detection system in the Grade II listed Walton Hall.

Permission is also sought to complete an asbestos survey linked to the proposed upgrade of the existing wireless fire alarm system.

Council officers have recommended that the development management committee approve both schemes at its meeting next Wednesday.

In a planning statement, they said the building has ‘historic, communal and aesthetic value’.

“In the local area, the building is among Warrington’s most important buildings, and set within the positive context of its historic grounds, the conservation area and other curtilage listed and listed buildings,” they added.

“In advance of the installation of a new fire alarm system, it is necessary to carry out an intrusive survey of the buildings in order to establish the presence and location of any asbestos that might be in the building.

“The asbestos survey is undertaken to locate and record the location, type, condition and extent of asbestos containing materials in the building and plant.”

Walton Hall and its estate is owned, maintained and managed by the council.