Asbestos fears halt DIY store's opening
Published Date:
05 April 2008
By Carmel Harrison
ASBESTOS fears have forced DIY giant Screwfix to postpone the opening of its new Halifax store.
It had been planned for yesterday – but the 16 staff were sent home on full pay as management took the precaution of closing the Hope Street site while tests were carried out on roof tiles.
Manager, Chris Watson, said that work on the roof could have disturbed some tiles that might contain asbestos and the closure was a safety measure.
"We tested before we started the work but any suggestion that there could be a danger to staff and customers has to be taken seriously," he said.
It was an embarrassment for the company, which was planning a discount weekend on all purchases.
Event management staff had to turn away a steady stream of cars and vans as trade and retail customers arrived for the opening to take advantage of price cuts.
"We hope to be open Monday and will then reschedule our promotions weekend for later on," said Mr Watson.
Screwfix has taken over the former Taylor and Ackroyd car showrooms at Hope Street, Halifax.
The full article contains 188 words and appears in Evening Courier newspaper.
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Last Updated:
05 April 2008 8:40 AM
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Source:
Evening Courier
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Location:
Halifax
