THE reopening of Witney’s Corn Exchange should not be further delayed despite more asbestos being found, according to a councillor.

Workers made the discovery while removing the hazardous material elsewhere in the Grade II-listed Market Place building.

It means they will have to return to carry out more work before a refurbishment programme begins by the end of the month.

Witney Town Council’s public halls committee chairman Roger Curry said: “My understanding is that they carried out the asbestos removal and found further asbestos of a very dangerous kind, which hadn’t been discovered earlier.

“They have to get approval before they can tackle it and should come back shortly.

“The good news is that it shouldn’t push back the start date for the contractors to start refurbishing the hall.”

The building was closed suddenly in November 2011, after a safety inspection uncovered problems such as asbestos and building structure.

Work to reopen it was delayed after asbestos was found during another safety inspection earlier this year.

A contractor will be chosen in the forthcoming weeks ahead of the refurbishment, which will include rewiring, structural work, fitting a new kitchen and renovating toilets. Costs are not yet known.

It is expected to reopen as a community hall and performing arts and cinema venue before Christmas.

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